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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 child care 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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Amid school closures, LA child care providers have a lot of questions and few answers.
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Will childcare centers stay open during the coronavirus crisis? That's up to individual providers.
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Authors and celebrities are doing virtual story times for your kids.
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Yes, laundry can be educational- and fun! We went to the experts for tips on keeping the learning going even if school's out.
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Tips from a clinical psychologist: First, take a deep breath.
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The LA Unified School District knows many of its students will experience trauma before they graduate and it's preparing teachers to help those students.
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Black moms-to-be with an estimated due date between March 15 and June 30, 2020 can apply for free doula services.
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The legislature's advisory body says Newsom's proposal lacks details about how it would solve problems for young children and families.
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If you made at least one dollar last year (and up to $30,000) the Young Child Tax Credit could put $1,000 in your wallet.
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If you made at least one dollar last year but less than $30,000 the Young Child Tax Credit could put an extra $1K in your wallet.
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On average, early educators in L.A. County earn a scant $14.65 an hour.
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Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled his proposed state spending plan Friday. The Governor is continuing his push to improve early childhood education and wants to establish a new Department of Early Childhood Development.
