March 10, 2025 – Chicopee, Massachusetts – Eighth grade students at Chicopee’s Sergeant Kevin A. Dupont Memorial Middle School recently participated in both a mock trial and court tour with the help of the Community Safety and Outreach Unit (CSO) of the Hampden District Attorney’s Office.

Every school year, the Hampden District Attorney’s Office holds their Adopt-A-Class program, opening up the justice system to students across the county to educate them about the work of the criminal justice system, as well as to present them potential career opportunities. The office selects three classes annually, with the 2024-2025 school year classes being the eighth grade at Chicopee’s Dupont Middle School, Springfield International Charter School’s eighth grade, and South End Middle School’s eighth grade.

The program begins with an initial visit with Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni, a return visit to provide a lesson in civics, and another to participate in a trial reenactment. The program then concludes with participating classes spending a half day touring the Hampden County Hall of Justice as an invited guest of the District Attorney. In addition to the tour, guest speakers provide insight into the different offices that make up the criminal justice system inside the courthouse, as well as showcasing career opportunities.

“By bringing civics and the legal system to life, we can foster a new generation of informed and responsible citizens who are ready to lead and contribute positively to our society,” Gulluni said.

On Friday, February 28, Dupont students were joined by members of the CSO as well as two assistant district attorneys who walked them through a reading of an impaired driving case from years prior. The students chose roles they would like to play in the case – members of the jury, witnesses, state troopers, and members of the defense and prosecution. They had the opportunity to ask questions, take the stand, and act out their parts, ultimately working toward a verdict from the jury.

The following week, on Wednesday, March 5 and Thursday, March 6, Dupont students then took a field trip to the Roderick Ireland Courthouse in Springfield, getting a first-hand look at the facilities. Victim witness advocates, judges, court officers and other courthouse personnel engaged with students throughout their visit, offering insights into the diverse career paths that contribute to the courthouse’s daily operations.