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 childcare 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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A district letter to families at one elementary school prompted the civil rights organization to take a closer look at district policies. -
Alberto Carvalho will lead the nation’s second-largest school district for the next four years. -
First aspiring spectators must register online, then later in 2026 there will be a series of drawings. -
The unions that represent teachers, principals, support staff and construction workers have protested what they say is a lack of progress on new contracts. -
The majority of Long Beach students must turn off and store their electronic devices in their backpacks for the entire school day. -
Over the past three years, Los Angeles Recreation and Parks has expanded opportunities for youths with disabilities to catch a wave, build confidence and learn water safety. -
If you want to send your child to a magnet, dual-language, or charter school next year, here’s what you need to know. -
While fears of immigration raids clouded the back-to-school season, lighthearted student traditions persist on the first day of school in Long Beach. -
Jazzy Gen Z singer Laufey debuted a new album — and an LA County library card to go with it. -
Demand from collectors and resellers makes it hard even to find the latest card sets in stores, but for young players, Pokémon is about more than money.
