Who is He and What is He doing Now?

Social Studies Review, Fall 2006 by Geyer, Pat

During the 1980's and early 90's there was a new and popular framework, which required a specific social studies curriculum K-12; a Superintendent of Public Instruction (Honig) who supported history/social studies; and testing in the social studies to evaluate the students and the programs. He was one of the leaders who worked to develop and implement social studies testing in the schools. Beginning in 1983 he served on the California Assessment Program (CAP) Social Science team. And in 1995 he was a part of the Golden State Exam Government/Civics Developmental Team. In 1991 he joined the California Learning Assessment Program and served as the Grade 10, History/Social Science Advisory Committee Chair. He continued to be a part of all these testing programs until his retirement in 2001.

His introduction to the California Council for the Social Studies (CCSS) began in 1961. CCSS held a one-day conference at Tagus Ranch near Tulare. Over 200 people attended. He was so impressed with the conference and the enthusiastic participation that he joined CCSS and the Joaquin Valley Social Studies Council immediately, though still a student teacher. Later he served as President of the Joaquin Valley Social Studies Council (1969-70), and he still serves as its Secretary/Treasurer. CCSS did not return to such successful mini-conferences until late 1980's. What brought teachers out for social studies conferences and participation in 1961?

He continued to attend California Council for the Social Studies state meetings, serving on the Board of Directors from 1970-84. He was elected to the Executive Board from 1990-97 and elected CCSS President from 1995-96. He continues to attend CCSS conferences and meetings. His most recent contribution has been as a member of the CCSS Restructuring Committee. He represents CCSS on the 4C's body and on the advisory board for the California History -Social Science Project where he serves as Co-chair of the board.

In addition, he is a member of National Council for the Social Studies and the National Social Studies Supervisors Association. In 1993 he was selected as the first NSSSA Outstanding Social Studies Supervisor. At NSSSA he has been a Board Member since 1997 and served in various offices including President of NSSSA from 1998-99.

Professionally he belonged to the Fresno Teachers Association, The California Teachers Association, and the National Education Association. He served as an officer of the Association of California School Administrators. Presently he is active in the Association of California School Administrators-Retired and the California Retired Teachers Association.

In addition to supporting history and civic competitions, he volunteers in the Fresno community. He is an officer of the Kidney Foundation of Central California, a member of the Fresno Easter Seals Society, the Masonic Lodge, and most recently, a docent at the Fresno Metropolitan Museum.

During his career he resided in a beautiful 1920's bungalow in old Fresno located on a quiet street between the high school and the community college. To this day he remains a vital part of the community and state that he has given so much to during his long and successful career in education. Fresno and California are fortunate to have Marvin Awbrey as one of their foremost educators.