March 20, 2025 – Springfield, Massachusetts – Eighth grade students at Springfield’s South End Middle School recently took a field trip to the Roderick Ireland Courthouse 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 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 South End Middle School, Springfield International Charter School’s eighth grade, and Chicopee’s Dupont Middle School 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.

“Introducing eighth-grade students to the judicial system through court tours is a powerful way to foster interest in the legal field, expose them to career opportunities, and highlight the role of the courts in upholding justice,” Gulluni said.

On Monday, March 10, South End Middle School students 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.