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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The newest electric bookmobile is rolling through eastern L.A. County, checking out books, Wi-Fi hot spots, laptops and more. -
Next school year, 41 LAUSD schools will house an independently run charter school on their campus. -
Returns show Measure R currently has the two-thirds of votes needed to pass. -
Depending on who you ask, charter schools represent either an existential threat to public schools or an innovative model for learning. But for many families, it’s just one of many public school options to consider. -
But we do love a tote bag, especially one that features cute animals. Families should sign kids up soon for L.A. city and county reading programs. -
The new $225 million campus includes a performing arts center, a half-size Olympic pool, tennis courts and classrooms where students will learn engineering, video game design and earn college credit. -
Five months after the Eaton Fire, soil tests show elevated levels of lead and other toxic metals in and around the affected areas. -
Pasadena Unified School District released results from soil samples this week, five months after the Eaton Fire. -
San Marino voters will decide whether to continue a property tax first approved more than 30 years ago. -
Educators say a major challenge they face is a lack of access to paid family leave, which will require a solution that extends beyond the district.
