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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Whether you’re a nostalgic adult or looking for a screen-free hobby for your child, here are a few places to learn the Pokémon trading card game. -
To continue making the teaching profession more accessible to candidates from historically excluded groups, experts provide recommendations for policymakers at the state and federal level. -
The annual Pokémon World Championships is the top tier of competition for video- and card game-players and an exhibition, shopping extravaganza and reunion for fans. -
Despite widespread concerns about immigration enforcement, Los Angeles Unified students returned to class today, eager to get to see their friends and favorite teachers again. -
Los programas magnet comenzaron como una estrategia para eliminar la separación entre estudiantes. Y ahora puede sentirse la competencia. -
More than 4,000 people have been arrested across the region since June and it’s still unclear how the threat of detention may impact whether students show up to school and if they do, what type of support they might need. -
School buses drive to and from about 90% of Los Angeles Unified schools, but less than 10% of students are onboard. -
A teenage student with disabilities was handcuffed by federal agents Monday while accompanying another student for registration. -
The district is collaborating with law enforcement, labor leaders and local elected leaders to get the word out that students will be safe at school. -
The second largest school district in the country reports that 67% of its 1,300 school buses rely on non-diesel fuels, including propane, natural gas and electricity.
