Harborside Mourns the Loss of Beloved Teacher Mr. David Underwood

Harborside Mourns the Loss of Beloved Teacher Mr. David Underwood

It is with immense sorrow and a heart weighed down by grief that we share the devastating news of the passing of Mr. David Underwood, our treasured 7th grade social studies teacher. While on a family vacation this past weekend, Mr. Underwood lost his life unexpectedly — a tragedy that has left our entire Harborside community in shock, heartbreak, and mourning.

There are no words that can fully capture the depth of this loss. Mr. Underwood was not only a remarkable educator, but also a cherished friend, a guiding mentor, and an anchor of compassion and joy in our school. His dedication to his students and his love for Harborside were evident in every lesson he taught, every hallway conversation, and every moment he spent shaping not just young minds, but young hearts.

To many, Mr. Underwood was more than a teacher — he was a beacon of light. Whether you were his student, a fellow educator, a parent, or someone who simply crossed his path, there’s a good chance he left a lasting impression on your life. His genuine kindness, quick wit, infectious laughter, and deep humanity made everyone around him feel valued and heard. He believed in his students fiercely and celebrated them fully. He saw potential where others saw struggle and responded with patience, understanding, and unwavering belief.

His classroom was a space of curiosity and courage, where history came alive and students were not just taught facts, but were empowered to think, question, and care. His colleagues admired him for his heart, his humor, and his ability to bring joy into even the most difficult of days. He embodied the spirit of Harborside and lived the Habits of Success not just in words, but in actions — compassion, integrity, perseverance, and service.

As we begin to process the magnitude of this loss, we are reminded that Mr. Underwood’s physical presence may now be gone, but his spirit and legacy remain woven into the very fabric of our school. The echoes of his laughter will linger in the halls. The lessons he taught — both academic and personal — will continue to guide us. And the kindness he extended will ripple through the Harborside family for years to come.

He was, in every sense, the embodiment of what it means to be “Crew.” Not just someone who showed up, but someone who lifted others, who pulled people closer, who reminded us that we are never alone. In Mr. Underwood’s honor, let us strive to carry forward his legacy in our actions, in our words, and in our care for one another.

• If someone is sitting alone, go to them — like Mr. Underwood would do.
• If you see someone struggling, offer help — like Mr. Underwood always did.
• If someone’s voice is unheard, amplify it — like Mr. Underwood taught us to.
• If the world around you feels too quiet, fill it with music, movement, and joy — like Mr. Underwood always brought into our classrooms and lives.
• And above all, if someone needs love — give it. Because Mr. Underwood did. Always.

In the coming days, grief counselors will be available for students and staff. We encourage everyone — especially our students — to lean on one another, talk openly, and honor your emotions. This is not a loss we face alone. We are Crew, and we face this heartbreak as a family.

Plans are underway to celebrate Mr. Underwood’s life and legacy in a way that reflects the vibrant, joyful, compassionate soul he was. More details will be shared with families and students in the coming days.

To Mr. Underwood’s family — please know that you are not alone in your sorrow. You are surrounded by a sea of students, colleagues, and families who loved him deeply and who are holding you in their hearts.

Though the world is dimmer without him, we find comfort in knowing that David Underwood made this world brighter while he was here. He made Harborside better. He made all of us better.

We will carry him with us, always.

With heartfelt love and deepest sympathy,