Besides being a superstar teacher, Dr. Underwood is one of the leading figures in high school and college officiating. Here he is at the 2018 College Football Championship in Atlanta where he serves as the "red hat" of the officiating crew.
Miami High television production teacher Dr. Underwood is a finalist for the Varkey Foundation’s 2018 Global Teacher Prize. Over 30,000 teachers from around the world applied, and Dr. Underwood was one of only 6 finalists selected from the U.S.A. The winner will be announced at the Global Education and Skills forum on March 18 in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. Dr. Underwood has been recognized multiple times locally, nationally, and internationally for excellence in his profession:
NEA Foundation Global Fellow- 2018
Miami Marlins Ayudan Community Partner Honoree -2017
Coconut Grove Masonic Lodge Educator of the Year- 2013
Smithsonian Institute Teacher Ambassador- 2012
Pearson Foundation Global Learning Fellowship- 2011
FEA Teacher of Excellence- 2010
Miami High Alumni Teacher of the Year- 2009
Japan Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher- 2008
National Teacher Hall of Fame- 2007
Toyota International teacher- 2006
USA TODAY All-Star Teaching Team- 2005
Disney American Teacher Award Honoree- 2004