Mariana Dale
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. How can schools create an environment where all students can learn? How do families navigate their child’s education amid life’s other challenges?
I started at LAist in 2019. My time on the early childhood beat helped me understand just how many factors shape kids’ lives, from health to child care access.
I grew up in Arizona where, among other things, I reported on education, saguaro cactus, and questions from people like you. My stories on the state’s 2018 teacher strike contributed to a national Edward R. Murrow award.
I want to hear from parents, educators, and students about what’s happening in their schools — the successes and challenges.
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With just two candidates, the race for the L.A. Unified board seat that represents communities from South L.A. to San Pedro will be settled on March 5. -
The pandemic made the district's existing challenges worse, including issues around enrollment, student learning, attendance, and mental health.
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Seven people are running to place George McKenna to represent L.A.’s Mid-City, Crenshaw, Arlington Heights, and Westmont neighborhoods in the L.A. Unified board.
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Four candidates are vying to replace Jackie Goldberg on the L.A. Unified board representing this unusually shaped district that stretches from Eagle Rock down to South Gate.
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Students and staff who test positive for the virus and have symptoms are still required to isolate. -
Just over half of faculty work part-time and more than half of CSU faculty do not have long-term job security. -
New parents and pregnant Californians can now request the support of a doula through Medi-Cal, but for the program to succeed, the state needs to attract more birthworkers to the program. -
California’s proposed budget is $37.9 billion short, but maintains funding for K-12 schools, kids’ mental health, and community schools. -
Students throughout Los Angeles County returned to school today amid rising cases of COVID-19, RSV, and other respiratory illnesses. -
Los Angeles County granted the first ever unicorn license to a local first grader last December with one caveat— first she had to find one.
