Leadership
Howdy BBE Bears!
I began my career in education in 2002 after graduating from Texas A&M University, starting out as a History teacher and coach at Kingwood High School. In 2005, I was honored to be part of the founding faculty at College Park High School, where I served as the head soccer coach and taught Economics for the next 15 years. During that time, I also earned my Master’s degree in Education Administration from Lamar University in 2011, preparing for the next step in my journey as an educator.
In 2020, I transitioned into school administration and spent four years as an assistant principal at Magnolia High School. These years deepened my commitment to supporting students, teachers, and families in more impactful ways.
My wife, Ellen, and I have called Magnolia home since 2014. We’ve been proud members of this vibrant community and strong believers in the values and vision of Magnolia ISD. Our three amazing children—Ty, Ben, and Sammy—attend Magnolia ISD schools, and we feel incredibly fortunate to raise our family here.
It’s an honor to serve as the principal of Bear Branch Elementary, where I am committed to fostering a culture of Legacy, Excellence, Achievement, and Determination for every student, every day. Bears LEAD the Way!
Vicki Winegardner - Assistant Principal / Campus Behavior Coordinator (CBC)
Vicki Winegardner is our Assistant Principal at Bear Branch Elementary. She holds her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of South Florida and her Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University. Vicki began her career in Cypress Fairbanks ISD as a 1st-grade teacher in 2004. She transitioned into school administration in 2012 while in Cypress Fairbanks ISD. Vicki moved to the Magnolia area in 2019 and is thankful for the opportunity to serve her community and is grateful to work with the dedicated teachers, staff, and parents of Bear Branch.
Mary Meeks - Academic Coordinator
Mary Meeks serves as the Academic Coordinator at Bear Branch Elementary School. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Sam Houston State University.
Mary began her teaching career at Bear Branch Elementary in 2018 as a 3rd grade math teacher. Over the years, she has taught 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades. After seven years in the classroom, she transitioned into the role of Academic Coordinator in 2025.
Mary is married to her husband, Brandon, and together they have three children.
Raquel Stone - CounselorRaquel Stone is the school counselor for Bear Branch Elementary School. She loves getting to know each student and helping them be successful lifelong learners. She visits classrooms and students teaching them characteristics to build their self esteem. Mrs. Stone looks forward to another year at BBE and all the great things that will be happening!
Raquel is here to help all parents and students. If you ever need anything, you can reach out to her at rstone@magnoliaisd.org or 281-356-4771 ext. 4107.