April 15, 2026 –Wilbraham, Massachusetts – More than 300 students at Stony Hill School in Wilbraham recently received their “NetSmartz Certificate” after participating in an interactive presentation led by the Hampden District Attorney’s Office Community Safety & Outreach (CSO) Unit and Youth Advisory Board (YAB).

The second and third grade classes received a lesson focused on internet and real-world safety concepts, better known as “NetSmartz.”

Six YAB members joined CSO to deliver the presentation. YAB is made up of high school students from across Hampden County dedicated to leadership and community engagement.

The YAB members included four students from Minnechaug Regional High School: Laila Hosnander, a senior; Anthony Cianflone, senior; Brooke Johnson, sophomore; and Demetrius Holmes, sophomore; along with two students from Wilbraham & Monson Academy: Natalie Blais, junior, and Ryan Cooley, senior.

The YAB members took turns sharing information with the students, while engaging and encouraging them to participate through helpful hints and discussion questions.

Following the presentation, the students’ knowledge was put to the test, as they were asked questions such as “what do you do when you feel sad, scared or confused?” The answer: tell a trusted adult.

Another question was “what should you not share online,” to which a student responded, “your name, address, and email.”

Last, but certainly not least, the students were asked what it means to use good “netiquette.” 

“To not say bad words online, and to be nice online,” one student shared.

“Programs like this are critical to helping young students understand how to stay safe and make smart choices,” said Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni. “I’m proud of our Youth Advisory Board members for leading by example and connecting with these students in a meaningful way.”

The NetSmartz presentation is one of many free programs the Hampden District Attorney’s Office offers to promote education, prevention, and youth empowerment across the county. The office regularly collaborates with schools and community partners to support the health and safety of young people.

For more information about the NetSmartz presentation, or to request a presentation at your school, contact Hampden District Attorney’s Office Deputy Director of Community Safety & Outreach Gina Anselmo at gina.anselmo@mass.gov.