
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

Nonbinary teen wins discrimination lawsuit against Greater Albany Public Schools
A federal jury in Eugene concluded the district and a former principal violated the U.S. Constitution, Title IX and Oregon law.

Congressional leaders from Oregon, California lead federal effort to curb teen fentanyl deaths through education
Lawmakers said the Fentanyl Awareness for Children and Teens in Schools Act would replicate local education programs such as Beaverton School District’s Fake and Fatal campaign.

State test scores show some progress, lingering needs in Oregon schools
Oregon students are participating more and, in some cases, testing at higher levels in English, math and science. But a majority of students fall short of proficiency.

Portland Public Schools fires teacher Bryan Chu after months of contention
The school board dismissed Chu on grounds of insubordination and neglect of duty, both of which Chu and his supporters rejected.

Portland Public Schools gives high schoolers drug-deactivating bags to take home
The bags can dispose of expired medication and illicit substances. If nothing else, the district hopes they spark family conversations about preventing drug abuse.
Portland teachers move one step closer to possible strike
The union declared an impasse in bargaining with Portland Public Schools after final mediation session Friday. A strike wouldn't happen until October or November.
What we know about continued negotiations for Portland teachers
A looming strike in Portland Public Schools could take place as early as next month. Both the district and union say they don’t want it to reach that point.

Evergreen students to return as teachers and district reach contract agreement
Members of the Evergreen Education Association voted Monday morning to approve a new collective bargaining agreement with the district.
Jefferson High School community pushes back against Portland Public’s plan to relocate
Construction begins next year at Jefferson High School and Portland Public Schools officials have a plan in place for students to attend Marshall High for three years. But Jefferson families say Marshall isn’t a valid option at all.
A glimpse into Oregon schools as students return
School staff are working to ensure a smooth and celebratory start to the new school year. Here’s a look inside a few Oregon schools