Former Hudson 5th Grade Teacher Pleads Guilty to Child Sex Crimes After Inappropriate Relationship Discovered

HUDSON, Wisconsin — A former fifth-grade teacher at River Crest Elementary has pleaded guilty to child sex crimes following revelations of an inappropriate relationship with an 11-year-old student, according to court records.

The teacher, 25-year-old Madison Bergmann of Lake Elmo, Minnesota, entered guilty pleas Monday to two counts of sexual misconduct by school staff and one count of child enticement. Several other charges were dismissed under the plea deal.

Inappropriate Relationship Uncovered

Bergmann resigned from her position in May 2024 after the victim’s parents discovered disturbing text messages between her and the child.

According to the criminal complaint, investigators obtained screenshots of conversations describing encounters that allegedly took place inside the classroom during lunch and after school hours.

When officers searched Bergmann’s belongings, they found a folder with the victim’s name containing handwritten notes. Many of the letters referenced kissing, while one included Bergmann’s own admission of guilt:

“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,” she allegedly wrote.

Charges and Sentencing

Bergmann’s guilty plea covered three felony charges, while more serious allegations, including first-degree sexual assault of a child, were dismissed.

She is scheduled to be sentenced on December 22, when a Wisconsin judge will determine her punishment.

Wider Investigation

The case has drawn attention to student safety in Hudson schools, as another staff member, Abigail Faust, is also facing charges for inappropriate contact with children, including a child she nannied in Washington County.

The guilty plea marks a major development in a case that has shaken the Hudson community, leaving parents calling for stronger protections and oversight in schools. For more Wisconsin crime and education safety updates, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.