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.

Submitted Photo Music teacher Risha Bergstrom, right, is shown with, from left, Carmen Mullins, Reagan Deslauriers, Myla Hieb, Mikal Watkins and Mataya Hieb in Minot’s Adapt Audio studio, recording “The Good Morning Song.”

Her English background continues to influence her music instruction.

“If you want to write a song about capybaras, I’m going to indulge that,” said Bergstrom, who finds inspiration in opportunities for creative expression through songwriting.

What distinguishes Bergstrom’s teaching is her ability to combine academic rigor, creativity and digital tools. Bergstrom is expanding the classroom beyond school walls through social media.

“The TikTok edge has brought a lot of opportunities to my classroom. A lot of the instruments that you see were donated by people on TikTok,” she said. Some of her content has even “gone viral and is used by other teachers across the country,” she added, describing that experience as being “in my happy place teaching elementary music.”

By showcasing her lessons online, Bergstrom has not only enriched her own students’ experience and attracted donations but also inspired educators nationwide. Even more recently, Bergstrom has taken her students from the classroom and has recorded the songs, “Teacher’s Christmas List” and “The Good Morning Song”.

Her dynamic approach earned her the county’s top teaching honor. Kirsten Baesler, North Dakota superintendent of Public Instruction, acknowledged Bergstrom among the 48 statewide winners, all now eligible for North Dakota Teacher of the Year, with the state-level winner to be announced in September.