WELCOME TO IMAGINE BUCKEYE!
Here are InBuckeye.com's top 10 stories of 2025
From heartbreaking loss to courtroom revelations to big-name restaurants arriving in town, Buckeye readers paid close attention in 2025. These were the stories that drew the most interest, sparked the biggest conversations and helped define the year for our community.
At Imagine Buckeye, we are proud to serve our students and families with a commitment to academic excellence and character development. Rooted in our core values of Respect, Responsibility, Open-Mindedness, and Honesty, everything we do—both in and out of the classroom—is designed to help our students grow into well-rounded, confident learners.
Jessica Kramer repeatedly pulled a student out of class, spent inappropriate time with him and even had him drive her home while she was intoxicated. Kramer had already been sentenced in 2023 to three years in prison in a separate sexual-abuse case. The suit named the school, an exchange program and a Buckeye police officer, claiming officials failed to stop the relationship. The lawsuit was dismissed. 5 BURGER BUZZ SEPTEMBER In-N-Out Burger broke ground at Buckeye Commons on Verrado Way. The banner went up, the buzz followed and readers wanted to know when they could finally grab a double- double. An opening date was announced for 2026 as the project signaled another national brand planting roots in Buckeye’s growing retail corridor.
1 HEROIC MOTHER OCTOBER
3 BETRAYAL OF TRUST APRIL
Michelle Marie Perez, who lived in Verrado’s Heritage District, died while protecting her 4-year-old daughter from an oncoming SUV outside Walmart. Perez, 41, had been shopping with her mother and child when the collision occurred. A GoFundMe created afterward raised about $36,000 to support the family.
A former Verrado Middle School teacher was sentenced to four and a half years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple counts tied to the attempted sexual exploitation and luring of a 12-year-old student. Prosecutors said Brendan Barnett abused his position at Verrado Middle School, secretly messaged the child and deceived her parents to arrange sleepovers. A judge imposed a sentence above the presumptive term, citing the seriousness of the betrayal and planned deception. 4 TEACHER LAWSUIT MAY A civil lawsuit filed in late 2024 alleged that former Odyssey Preparatory Academy teacher
Middle School Athletics Program – NEW THIS YEAR!
Our vibrant 21st Century After School Program offers students exciting ways to explore beyond the standard curriculum, including: • STEM-based LEGO Clubs • Sports clubs like soccer and cheer • Reading and math skill building • Opportunities for creative expression • Student Council • Yearbook
Michelle Marie Perez died while protecting her 4-year-old daughter from an oncoming SUV outside Walmart.
2 DOG SHOOTING APRIL
We believe education thrives through connection, which is why we proudly partner with families and the community. Through engaging holiday events, meaningful family partnerships, and local collaborations, Imagine Buckeye remains a welcoming place for every Firebird to grow, learn, and soar.
A Buckeye man was arrested after shooting a dog that had reportedly bitten his child, igniting discussion about self-defense, animal-cruelty laws and parental judgment. The story, which took place in the Acacia Crossing community near the Fry’s on Yuma Road, sparked debate over how far residents can legally go to protect their kids. Prosecutors later dismissed the charges against the shooter.
Click here to enroll NOW!
Offering Pre-k - 8th
2400 247th Avenue (623) 250-4570
Construction began on the California-based fast food chain In-N-Out Burger in the Buckeye Commons retail area along Verrado Way.
School Days/Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-3pm
InBuckeye.com | January/February 2026
January/February 2026 | InBuckeye.com
12
13
Powered by FlippingBook