Mariana Dale
Early Childhood Reporter
(she/her)
I explore and explain the forces that shape the lives of kids 0-5 and their families, from mom’s health to kindergarten and just about everything in between.
The occasional playground visits are just one perk of the job.
I moved to Southern California after a lifetime in Arizona where, among other things, I reported on the state’s 2018 teacher strike, saguaro cactus, and questions from people like you.
I hope the stories we tell together reflect the experiences of caregivers, educators and kids from all walks of life, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of early childhood.
Every interview is an opportunity to learn more about L.A. through its people and – when I’m not on deadline– an excuse to scout out tasty food.
What questions do you have about early childhood education and development? What do you want to know about kids ages 0-5 and those who care for them in Southern California?
Decades of research indicates early childhood education significantly boosts children’s readiness to learn. Mariana Dale wants families, caregivers and educators to have the information they need to help children 0-5 grow and thrive by identifying what’s working and what’s not in California’s early childhood system.
-
The union that represents school support staff in Los Angeles Unified School District has reached a tentative agreement with district leadership to increase wages by 30% and provide health care to more members. -
Parents and students pivoted while a three-day strike shut down Los Angeles Unified School District. There were teachable moments, some more successful than others.
-
There’s been a lot of talk about a $4.9 billion budget reserve. We break down where the money comes from and how the district could spend it.
-
District support staff have a lot on the line, with many hoping for a reprieve from needing multiple jobs.
-
From diaper changing to arithmetic, special education assistants help students navigate the school day. Families say their support is irreplaceable.
-
Parents picked up food and homework while union rank-and-file pounded the pavement.
-
Service Employees International Local 99, the union representing 30,000 bus drivers, cafeteria workers, custodians and other support staff across LAUSD, has started a three-day strike.
-
More than 400,000 students in the nation's second largest school district are back to learning at home as support staff, bus drivers, and teachers strike this week.
-
Tips for receiving respectful, high-quality care during pregnancy, birth and postpartum.
-
April Valentine died at Centinela Hospital. Her daughter was born by emergency C-section. She'd gone into the pregnancy with a plan, knowing Black mothers like herself were at higher risk.
