Natalie Pate
Natalie Pate is a K-12 education reporter for OPB. Natalie has written about education in Oregon and beyond for nearly a decade, including more than seven years at the Statesman Journal in Salem. She is a former fellow for Investigative Reporters and Editors and the Education Writers Association. Her byline has appeared in outlets such as Oregon Capital Chronicle, Eater PDX, The Hechinger Report and USA Today.
Natalie is passionate about accountability and equity reporting in education. She loves to share the stories and perspectives of students, families and employees most impacted by the K-12 system. Send questions and tips to npate@opb.org.
Latest Stories
Summer program helps Tigard-Tualatin students while training future teachers
Portland State University’s partnership program with Metzger Elementary School essentially doubled its enrollment in its second year.
Colin Kaepernick makes surprise visit to Portland Public Schools, a new partner with his AI company
The civil rights activist and former NFL quarterback’s company, Lumi Story AI, is part of a new artificial intelligence partnership with Oregon’s largest school district.
Portland State University shutters DEI office in effort to restructure
A university spokesperson said the changes are based on an internal evaluation and are not related to the federal administration’s anti-DEI crackdown.
What to know about Salem’s water emergency and what’s being done to prevent it
A look inside the Salem water treatment facility at the heart of a major regional conversation.
With school year approaching, Gov. Kotek celebrates education wins
Oregon lawmakers made key changes to public schools in the 2025 session, as educators push for more stability and support.
Oregon Congressional lawmakers react to Salem water emergency
Sen. Ron Wyden is among the lawmakers pushing for protecting endangered salmon, while also prioritizing safe and clean drinking water for local residents.
Teachers in Washington, Oregon brace themselves through federal funding whiplash
In the last month, the Trump administration withheld Congressionally approved federal education grants, released a small portion, then released all of the money after all.
US Supreme Court’s opt-out for LGBTQ materials doesn’t cancel out Oregon’s new book ban law
The federal ruling requires a way for parents to opt out on religious grounds. Oregon’s new law includes a similar provision but in a different context.
3 Oregon students file lawsuit to ban trans athletes from women’s sports
Legal challenges to trans athletes competing in women's sports have appeared in multiple states. Three Oregon students argue trans athletes are given special privileges, including having to hire security to escort them during track meets.
Federal court ruling continues yearslong lawsuit on shortened school days for Oregon students with disabilities
A federal class-action lawsuit claims Oregon failed to ensure students with disabilities receive a full day of education. On Monday, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruled the case should proceed.
