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Mariana Dale
What I cover
I explore and explain the forces that shape how and what kids learn from kindergarten to high school. Our K-12 education system has not always provided each child the same opportunities to succeed, but I believe all kids have the capacity to learn and find a meaningful place in the world.
My background
I started at LAist in 2019 as the early childhood reporter where I quickly realized that what we think of as education starts well before a kid steps into a classroom. Health, access to child care and nutritious food are a few of the many factors that shape young people’s lives. My reporting on the disparities in maternal mortality taught me that inequity can lead to deadly outcomes but also that there is a groundswell of community support pushing to change harmful systems.
I grew up in Arizona, where among other things, I reported on education, saguaro cactus and questions from people like you. I’m proud to mentor emerging journalists through Next Gen Radio and various education programs.
My reporting has earned a national Edward R. Murrow award, Hillman Prize and accolades from the L.A. Press Club and the Online News Association.
My goals
I want to help families navigate their child’s education, explore the challenges that prevent schools from creating an environment where all students can learn and highlight solutions.
Best way to reach me
I love to hear questions and ideas for stories about schools and the opportunities in our community for children to learn and grow. You can reach out by email at mdale@laist.com.
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Names, birthdays, demographic information and other academic information may have been copied.
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In community meetings across the district this month, leaders explained why they are considering school closures and consolidations.
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Several Los Angeles County school districts and two cities are asking voters to approve additional taxes to fund education.
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The measure, which is focused on campaign finance rules for LAUSD Board elections, is one of several proposed changes to the L.A. charter on the Nov. 3 ballot.
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LAUSD's overspending, declining enrollment and increasing costs put the district at risk of insolvency by 2028, according to a report from a state agency.
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Dozens of school districts are asking voters to approve about $1.4 billion in bonds to maintain and replace school buildings and other infrastructure.
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Applications for the district’s magnet, dual-language and affiliated charter schools are due by Nov. 6.
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The Laguna Beach Unified School District is asking voters to approve a $83 million bond through property taxes.
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The Temple City Unified School District is asking voters to approve a $146 million bond through property taxes.
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The Glendora Unified School District is asking voters to approve a $86 million bond through a new property tax.
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The Claremont Unified School District is asking voters to approve a $77 million bond through property taxes.
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The Charter Oak Unified School District is asking voters to approve a $75 million bond through increased property taxes.