Iowa Teens Plead Guilty to First-Degree Murder in Beating Death of High School Teacher

Two Iowa teenagers have pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in the beating death of their high school teacher, Nohema Graber. Willard Miller and Jeremy Goodale, both students at Fairfield High School, admitted to helping plan and carry out the killing of their 66-year-old Spanish teacher.

The teacher’s body was found in a Fairfield park in November 2021, hidden under a tarp, wheelbarrow, and railroad ties. Miller admitted to helping plan and carry out the killing but denied ever hitting Graber. Prosecutors said the teens carried out the 2021 attack because of a bad grade Graber had given Miller.

Goodale testified that Miller initiated the plan to kill Graber and they both struck her. Prosecutors say the evidence shows both Miller and Goodale struck Graber with a bat. The teens are expected to be sentenced in the coming months.

Graber was a beloved teacher at Fairfield High School, where she taught Spanish for over 20 years. Her death has left the school and community in shock. The school district released a statement saying, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Nohema Graber, a dedicated teacher and friend to many. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends during this difficult time.”

The case has been closely followed by the community and has sparked a discussion about the need for better mental health resources for students. The school district has promised to review its policies and procedures to ensure the safety of its students and staff.