Mark Fairbank Paso Robles, CA | 7-12, Science, 2009

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Mark Fairbank has taught science at Paso Robles High School for 26 years. He has taught Biology, Earth Science, Chemistry, Physics, and Advanced Placement Chemistry and Physics. Prior to teaching in Paso Robles, he taught Physics and Physical Science at Elk Grove High School in Elk Grove, CA. The passion Mark has for teaching has spread. As Department Chair, he has assisted his department as well as 40 percent of the teaching staff in the implementation of interactive notebooks and Assessment for Learning strategies. The notebook and direct instruction that Mark uses allow students to be active in their own learning. As a technology mentor, Mark wrote and implemented a $750,000 grant and taught many courses in computer technology. He has presented topics such as DNA technology, physics and chemistry demonstrations, and teaching strategies at local, private, and state conferences and workshops. He is the Assessment for Learning Coordinator, a master teacher for student teachers, and an Advancement Via Independent Determination presenter. Mark has a B.S. in Chemistry, a B.A. in Physical Sciences, and an M.A. in Science Education from California State University, Sacramento. He is certified in physical and biological sciences, mathematics, and athletics.

• High-resolution version of the official portrait photograph
• Awardee holding Presidential certificate between NSF Director Subra Suresh and OSTP Director John P. Holdren
• High-resolution version of the teacher profile photograph

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