By Terry Rindfleisch
LA CROSSE, WI — Dan Risgaard always considered himself a
teacher first, and a music teacher second.
Risgaard, who directed some of the best show choirs in the state
at La Crosse Logan High School, said he tried to give students more
than a musical experience and show choir championships.
“I believe in professionalism, honesty and kindness, and I
expected my kids to be the best people they could be, and be kind
and have respect for others,” Risgaard said.
Risgaard ended a legendary 40-year teaching career Friday. He
was currently the longest-serving teacher in the La Crosse School
District. His entire teaching career was in La Crosse, 12 years at
Longfellow and 28 years at Logan High School.
He was the first to start a junior high show choir in the La
Crosse area with a staged show and choreographer. At Logan High
School, his Class Act choir won many grand championships and were
regular finalists at competitions.
Nancy Allen, director of Viterbo University’s Platinum Edition
Show Choir who also trains music teachers, was Risgaard’s student
at Longfellow. She was his piano accompanist.
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