
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.
-
Lahaina schools in Hawaii were closed for about two months for cleaning and environmental testing following August 2023 wildfire.
-
While some schools in or near wildfire evacuation zones have reopened, some campuses may need ongoing cleaning to keep students and staff safe from smoke and ash.
-
Around 38,000 people are under evacuation warnings after the fire quickly grew to more than 10,300 acres.
-
Parents say there's lots to appreciate about how school districts in Los Angeles have responded to the fires. But their patience is not infinite.
-
The nation's second largest school district has been closed since Thursday as fires spread around the Los Angeles area.
-
All Los Angeles Unified schools, child care and adult education centers will be closed through Friday, Jan. 10.
-
Test scores are only one measure of what happens inside a school. Here’s what to look for to find the best fit for your child.
-
As multiple fires burn across the Los Angeles area, several districts that hoped to be open by now have stayed shuttered.
-
LAPD suspends resident visits to fire area as search for more bodies continues. The fire, which has killed 11 people, has burned through more than 23,500 acres.
-
The LAist education team this year worked to bring nuance to difficulties the state faces, and shine a light on solutions that can fly under the radar. Here's some of what we learned along the way.