I am the only high school physical sciences teacher in my district. Because of this, I often worry about my methods of instruction and if I am presenting material in the most student-friendly manner. Winning the Presidential Award, an award based on a critical analysis of my teaching and teaching philosophy, has confirmed that I am on the right track in how I conduct my lessons. Knowing this, I now can push myself even harder down this path to becoming the best teacher that I can be.

Joshua Underwood Mt. Olivet, KY | 7-12, Science, 2011

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

Joshua Underwood has been responsible for teaching all of the physical sciences classes at Deming High School for the past 12 years. During his tenure, he has taught courses ranging from Astronomy and Earth Science to Chemistry and Advanced Placement Physics to students in grades 9-12. Outside of class, Joshua has continued his work with students. He has been an academic coach and a test preparation provider, and has taught elementary science camps. Along with his teaching duties, Joshua has served as a mentor for first-year teachers in the district and as an online mentor for teachers outside Kentucky. He is a member of the Kentucky Education Association’s Jump Start team, which provides guidance to teachers working toward National Board Certification. He is also a Physics Teaching Resource Agent, part of a group within the American Association of Physics Teachers that provides professional development. Joshua is a former president of the Kentucky Science Teachers Association (KSTA). He has presented many times at the KSTA annual conference and at national conferences. Joshua has a B.S. in physical sciences education and an M.A. in secondary education from Morehead State University as well as an M.S. in science education from Montana State University. He is a National Board Certified Teacher of Physics.

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