January 22, 2026 – Monson, Massachusetts – As part of the Adopt-a-Class program, the eighth graders at Monson High School received a civics lesson on Thursday, Jan. 15.

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 Elizabeth Simonian led the presentation, with the focus being on the United States Constitution.

Simonian shared a presentation that covered the first 10 amendments, before involving the group of more than 50 students by giving them scenarios and asking if they agree or not, and what amendment applied to the situation.

Simonian then asked discussion questions such as, “Which amendment do you think is most important today, and why?”

One student replied, “Number 1, because you should be able to practice whatever religion you want.”

The other questions raised by Simonian were, “How might life be different without constitutional protections,” and “why do amendments protect people who are accused of crimes, even if they might be guilty?”

Her questions sparked much interest in the room, as more than 20 students raised their hands, waiting patiently to be called on and share their answers, while they chatted about the questions among friends.

The civics lesson is the second of three visits the Hampden District Attorney’s Office will make to the school.

Community Safety & Outreach Deputy Director Gina Anselmo explained that the next and final visit on Jan. 29 will be an interactive trial, where students will be assigned different roles to play, ranging from witnesses to prosecutors.

The program will conclude with selected classes spending half a day touring the Hampden County Hall of Justice as invited guests of the District Attorney.