January 21, 2026 – Springfield, Massachusetts – As part of the Adopt-a-Class program, the Hampden District Attorney’s Office returned to Springfield’s Legacy Academy on Thursday, Jan. 8, for a civics lesson. 

The purpose of the office’s visit is to discuss civics and gain more knowledge on the Bill of Rights, supporting what the students are currently learning in their social studies classes.

Assistant District Attorney Jeffrey Clarke led the presentation, with the focus being on the United States Constitution.

Clarke began by asking the room of more than 100 students if they knew what the three branches of government are, along with the amendments. He provided information on the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches, as well as the first 10 amendments.

At the end of the hour-long presentation, Clarke shared various made-up scenarios ranging from assault to robbery, and asked students if they agreed with the outcome. By a show of hands, students responded to Clarke’s questions, and even identified which amendment pertained to the situation.

Students then had the opportunity to ask Clarke their own questions, such as the schools he attended, the different types of lawyers, and the most difficult case he has been a part of.

The civics lesson is the second of three visits the Hampden District Attorney’s Office will make to the school. The final visit will involve guiding students through an interactive trial before the program concludes with selected classes spending half a day touring the Hampden County Hall of Justice as invited guests of the District Attorney.