President
Meet Anthony Webb, a former executive director from San Antonio turned local entrepreneur in the vibrant New Braunfels area. Balancing his small business with being a proud dad to his OCES attending son, Anthony is all about community engagement. As the current PTA president, he brings not only his professional acumen but also his love for history, science, travel, and tinkering with electronics. Fun fact: Anthony and his wife have flown around the globe twice!
Vice President – Membership
Cristine Barger, our dedicated 2nd Vice President (Membership), is the backbone of our PTA, having served two terms as Treasurer and given three solid years to OCES PTA. With three kids in tow, she’s the epitome of a multitasking marvel. When she’s not crunching numbers or rallying volunteers, Christine’s frequent flyer miles rack up faster than you can say “Spirit Stick.” By this summer, she’ll have touched down in 48 states, leaving just two more to conquer! And in her downtime, she’s the kitchen maestro, whipping up tasty treats for her family.
Vice President – Fundraising
Danielle Darden, the Vice Principal at OCES, the master of combining leadership with creativity. While she skillfully manages school operations, she also wields scissors, hot glue, and her Cricut with a flair that turns ordinary materials into extraordinary classroom decorations and engaging learning tools. Her inventive spirit means that even the most mundane bulletin boards are transformed into vibrant works of art that make students and staff alike smile.
Her colleagues often joke that her Cricut might be her secret superpower, capable of turning even the most chaotic day into a visually stunning experience. From her talent for creating themed decorations in record time to her knack for adding a splash of fun to every school event, Darden’s creative touch and infectious humor make her an invaluable member of the Oak Creek Elementary team.
Treasurer
We are sad to report that Shenale Gerrity resigned her post before the start of the school year. The executive board is working to recruit a suitable replacement for this key board seat.
If you or someone you know is looking to make a difference in the lives of so many children and teachers, let us know or share the open positions page on our website.
Thank you,
Anthony Webb
Secretary
Deanda Pine is a beloved figure within the OCES PTA, having dedicated five years to its mission. Currently serving as the Secretary and boasting two terms as past president, she’s a multitasking marvel. Armed with a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and a bachelor’s degree in Applied Sociology, Deanda blends expertise with a warm, friendly demeanor in all her endeavors. Fun fact: Deanda was swimming long before mastering the art of crawling. As a devoted mom to two OCES students and one Canyon middle schooler, her commitment to our school community runs deep.
President
Valerie Harari is the esteemed principal of Oak Creek Elementary School in New Braunfels, Texas, part of the Comal Independent School District. Under her leadership, the school has emphasized a supportive and inclusive learning environment, fostering both academic excellence and character development among its students.
Oak Creek Elementary serves a diverse student body from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. The school is known for its strong academic performance, consistently ranking in the top 20% of public schools in Texas with an overall Rating of 94 of 100. This success is attributed to a combination of experienced educators and a robust array of programs designed to meet the unique needs of each student.
Harari has been pivotal in cultivating a culture of growth and support at Oak Creek. Her approach is centered on high expectations and a wide range of programs that encourage students to reach their full potential. The school offers numerous clubs, organizations, and mentoring opportunities, which are integral to its mission of creating a nurturing and engaging environment for learning and personal development.
Valerie Harari’s tenure at Oak Creek is marked by her dedication to transformative education. She and her team believe in the power of diversity and work tirelessly to ensure that every student is prepared for future success. Her leadership is characterized by a commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of the school community, fostering an atmosphere where students and staff can thrive.