I divide Massachusetts into thirds.

• West border to Springfield = Western Mass.
• Springfield to Worcester = Central Mass.
• Worcester to Coast + Cape = Eastern Mass

I agree. Don’t go full Karen but maybe speak to the principal. “Oh my god” has always been a perfectly fine thing to say in my family and life in general. Seems like something a nut would get worked up about.

Yes, the people are fine and Pittsfield is perfectly safe.

Use common sense and follow the same general safety rules that apply for every other city in the country and you'll be fine.