Submitted Photo Risha Bergstrom holds her Ward County Teacher of the Year award, presented at the Capitol in Bismarck.

Risha (Allen) Bergstrom, music teacher at John Hoeven Elementary in Minot, has been recognized as the Ward County Teacher of the Year for 2025, capping off nearly two decades of teaching across various subjects.

Principal John Alstad praises her as someone who “brings her joy of music to the classroom” and “brings her creativity to the classroom,” stating that her approach keeps students engaged consistently.

Bergstrom began her career teaching English before transitioning to music in 2021.

She views student engagement as the cornerstone of effective classroom management and learning.

“Ever since I’ve been teaching, that has been my focus – engagement,” she said.

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