A 24-year-old teacher in the US faces charges of sexual assault for allegedly engaging in inappropriate behavior and having an “inappropriate relationship” with one of her fifth-grade students. Madison Bergmann’s alleged misconduct with the 11-year-old boy came to light less than three months before her scheduled wedding, according to CBS News Minnesota.
The incident was brought to attention when the boy’s mother overheard him conversing with Bergmann on the phone and confiscated the device. Upon discovering text messages between her son and the teacher, the boy’s parents reportedly confronted the school authorities with printed copies of the conversations.
Charging documents presented to the police revealed that the texts included discussions of several encounters between Bergmann and the 11-year-old inside the classroom during lunch or after school. Additionally, Bergmann is accused of expressing enjoyment at the boy’s physical touch.
The boy informed investigators that he communicated with Madison Bergmann “almost daily” and obtained her number during a skiing trip to Afton Alps with her and his mother over winter break. Bergmann allegedly agreed to share her number with the boy during the trip if they were separated at the park.
During a search of Bergmann’s belongings, a folder containing handwritten notes with the boy’s name on it was discovered. The 11-year-old stated to the police that he and Bergmann exchanged notes throughout the day, many of which mentioned them “kissing each other,” as per court documents.
In one of the letters, Bergmann reportedly expressed concerns about their relationship, acknowledging the inappropriateness of their interactions given the boy’s age. Despite professing her love for him, she recognized the need to act as the adult in the situation and end the relationship.
Bergmann, who was due to get married in July, was released on a $25,000 signature bond and placed on administrative leave. She has been prohibited from accessing school property or attending school events, as well as from contacting any district students, parents, or staff, according to the New York Post.
The school principal conveyed shock over the incident, emphasizing concern for the River Crest School community and the impacted children. Madison Bergmann is scheduled to appear in court again on May 30.