CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea – Humphreys Middle School, also known as Phoenix Territory, hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony Sep. 28, to formally mark the opening of the new facility. Students, teachers, faculty members and staff flooded the dimly lit auditorium with noise and excitement as they anticipated the entrance of the official party.
Although the school had been occupied since the beginning of the school year, it’s significant as the Far East District marks another milestone in the progress of the Yongsan Relocation Program - a massive construction project that relocates United States Forces Korea personnel from Seoul to Camp Humphreys.
Col. Teresa Schlosser, United States Army Corps of Engineers, Far East District commander, offered words of gratitude to Daelim, Korean Ministry of National Defense United States Forces Korea Relocation Office (MURO), Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), and FED personnel for their dedication and commitment to building the school.
“This school is just the latest example of the many collaborative efforts between our ROK partners and the Far East District in creating innovative quality of life facilities here at U.S Army Garrison Humphreys.”
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a joyous occasion for the students as they participated in all facets of the event. The school’s choir and band gave honor to both nations with a grand rendition of the U.S. and Republic of Korea (ROK) National Anthems. They later serenaded the audience with musical numbers.
Many officials from across DoDEA, who were part of the official party, were in attendance and also offered remarks during the ceremony.
Lois Rapp, DoDEA Pacific Director for Student Excellence, was one of the distinguished guests to address the crowd. She began her remarks by thanking the Far East District, MURO, and the ROK for their combined efforts in building the school.
“This is one of the most beautiful middle schools I have ever been in,” said Rapp. “Truly second to none.”
As there were many speakers, she kept her remarks short and direct, but left the students with a motivational message.
“Continue the legacy of excellence that stands at all of our DoDEA schools,” said Rapp.
The ceremony ended with the official cutting of the ribbon and guests were offered an official tour of the state-of-the-art-facility.