Wisconsin Teacher Faces Charges Over Incident with Young Student

A Wisconsin elementary school teacher faces charges of first-degree child sexual assault for allegedly “making out” with a fifth-grade student, shocking the local community and raising concerns about student safety.

At a Glance

Madison Bergmann, 24, arrested for inappropriate behavior with an 11-year-old student
Allegations surfaced after the student’s mother overheard a phone conversation
Evidence includes text messages and handwritten notes detailing encounters
Bergmann faces potential life imprisonment if convicted
Incident occurred three months before Bergmann’s planned wedding

Teacher Arrested for Alleged Sexual Misconduct

Madison Bergmann, a 24-year-old teacher at River Crest Elementary School in Hudson, Wisconsin, was arrested on charges of first-degree child sexual assault with a child under age 13. The allegations involve inappropriate behavior, including “making out,” with a fifth-grade student. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and raised serious questions about student safety in educational settings.

The abuse reportedly began after Bergmann received the boy’s phone number during a family skiing trip in December. This disturbing development occurred in the same month Bergmann became engaged to her longtime boyfriend, with their wedding planned for July.

Wisconsin school teacher, 24, busted for ‘making out’ with 5th-grader — 3 months before wedding https://t.co/TVLaUY7rBK

— New York Post (@nypost) May 3, 2024

Evidence Uncovered

The allegations came to light when the 11-year-old student’s mother overheard a phone conversation between her son and Bergmann. The boy’s father subsequently presented text messages between Bergmann and the boy to River Crest Elementary, indicating multiple encounters. These messages allegedly discussed meetings inside the classroom during lunch or after school.

“One of my cousins is in the 5th grade, and I can’t imagine a man talking to her how we talk. I know we have a special relationship, and I do love you more than anyone in the world, but I have to be the adult here and stop,” Bergmann, as reported on WTRF.com

Police discovered a folder with the child’s name containing handwritten notes about their interactions. In one note, Bergmann acknowledged the inappropriate nature of their relationship but also expressed her feelings for the boy. The victim stated he communicated with Bergmann almost daily after obtaining her number during the skiing trip.

School and Legal Response

The Hudson School District has placed Bergmann on administrative leave and barred her from contacting district students, parents, or staff. Principal Kimberly Osterhues expressed shock and concern for the school community. The district released a statement describing the alleged conduct as “deeply troubling.”

“Learning about a school staff member and alleged inappropriate conduct that breaches trust is deeply troubling for all of us,” the message states.

Bergmann faces one count of first-degree child sexual assault, which carries a potential life sentence if convicted. She was released on a $25,000 signature bond and is prohibited from school property and events. When confronted by investigators, Bergmann requested an attorney. Her next court appearance is scheduled for May 30.

Community Impact and Concerns

This incident has ignited public anger and highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the safety and welfare of students in educational settings. It underscores the critical need for robust protective measures to safeguard children from potential predators within the school system.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the community will be watching closely to see how justice is served and what steps will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The case serves as a stark reminder of the trust placed in educators and the devastating consequences when that trust is betrayed.