Osan MHS U.S. Government students receive U.S. Capitol-flown flag
OSAN, South Korea - The U.S. Government 12 class at Osan Middle High School (OMHS) received a rare and meaningful recognition this spring when a flag was raised over the United States Capitol in their honor on December 19, 2025, celebrating students’ commitment to civic learning and engagement with the democratic process.
Throughout the U.S. Government 12, students explored the foundations of American democracy, the responsibilities of citizenship, and the impact of government decisions on daily life. Many students said the class helped them understand government in a more personal and relevant way.
“We learned about the Constitution, the amendments, and how the government works,” said senior Alicia Chun. “The class helped me understand how government decisions affect jobs, rights, and everyday life.”
“People were open about their opinions and were acknowledged even if their opinions differed from others,” added senior Jekara Dunaway. “Our class connected current events to what we were learning in class.”
For many, the class offered a front‑row seat to history.
“I remember how we were in the middle of class when the federal government shut down in 2025,” said senior Yauris Garcia Colon. “It helped us see how the three branches of the government should work together.”
When students learned that a flag had been raised in front of the U.S. Capitol specifically in their name, reactions ranged from surprise, pride and to thoughtful reflection.
“Seeing a flag that was hung in our name at the Capitol was pretty humbling,” said senior Zachary Taylor. “It was in the presence of important people whose decisions affect our lives, and then it was sent all the way to a little classroom in South Korea, just for us.”
For Garcia Colon, the moment felt unexpectedly special.
“I didn’t know something like this was possible,” Garcia Colon said. “It feels like a privilege that we had the opportunity to have a flag hung in our honor.”
U.S. Government teacher Seara Moon shared that the flag, which is now displayed in her classroom, serves as a reminder to students of their role as citizens in the democratic process.
“This honor shows them that their learning and their voices matter,” Mood said. “Moments like this help students see themselves as participants in democracy, not just observers.”
As students prepare for future elections, many said the class changed how they think about voting and civic responsibility.
“I will always remember that the presidential election is not the only election,” Dunaway said. “Local elections can greatly affect my daily life, and I’ll always participate whenever I can.”
Chun echoed the importance of informed participation.
“I’ll remember how important it is to understand my rights and be informed before voting,” Chung said. “The class showed me that voting is my responsibility as a citizen and that our choices matter.”
The Capitol‑flown flag serves as a reminder of the students’ hard work and the importance of civic education. Many students said they will remember the experience long after graduation.
“The class made the government feel more real to our lives,” shared Chun, “and not just something we read from a textbook.”
