Meet the State Officer Team

Theme for 2026-2027: Exploring the Wilderness of Teaching


2026-2027 State Officer Schools:

 

President: Jaxon Tomlinson
Cleburne High School, Area 10

Jaxon Tomlinson is a sophomore at Cleburne High School and an active member of the Texas Association of Future Educators. Through TAFE, Jaxon has participated in chapter events, competitions, service projects, and conferences that have helped him grow as a leader and future educator. He served as the 2025-2026 Area 10 Vice-President, where he worked alongside chapters to support events, share ideas, and encourage member involvement.

Jaxon values teamwork, inclusion, and service, and believes TAFE is strongest when every member feels welcomed and supported. His goals as a state officer are to help increase participation across the state, strengthen connections between chapters, and explore creative ways to promote the teaching profession to students.

Outside of TAFE, Jaxon serves as Treasurer for his SkillsUSA chapter and is working toward both his high school diploma and an associate degree. He is grateful for the opportunities TAFE has provided and would be honored to continue serving its members as a TAFE State Officer.

 

 

Vice President: Katelyn Cooksy
Opportunity Central, Area 11

Hi! I’m a junior from Opportunity Central who loves being involved and making a positive impact at my school and in my community. I’m actively involved in TAFE, where my passion for education and leadership continues to grow. I’ve proudly served as my school’s mascot since middle school, spreading school spirit, energy, and positivity where I go. Being a mascot has taught me confidence, dedication, and how to connect with others. Outside of school, I enjoy singing, photography, and spending time with my friends, all of which allow me to express creativity and build meaningful relationships. I live in Forney and am inspired daily by teachers who have supported and encouraged me throughout my education. Because of them, I want to become a teacher who creates a welcoming engaging classroom where students feel seen, supported, and excited to learn. My goal is to inspire students to believe in themselves and reach their full potential.

 

Secretary: Liev Kutev
Denton High School, Area 10

Hello TAFE!  My name  is Liev  Kutev  and  I am running  to be your  TAFE  State  Officer!  I  am  a  sophomore  at  Denton  High  School,  and  I’ve  been  in  TAFE  for  3  years.  I  am  currently  the  area  10  historian  and  the  secretary  of  my  chapter.  I  have  been  a  state  qualifier  every  year  I  have  been  in  TAFE,  and  this  year  I  am  competing  in  Public  Service  Announcement,  Portfolio,  Project  Visualize  Teaching,  and  ELF  test.  I  think  I  would  be  a  great  candidate  for  TAFE  state  officer  because  I  love  being  connective,  helpful,  and  supportive!  (much  like a Minion.)  Be  sure  to  vote  for  Liev  Kutev  for  TAFE  State  Officer!  I hope  that I  can steal  your vote  like The  Minions stole  the  moon.

 

Historian: Cooper Sykes
Dumas High School, Area 8

Cooper Sykes is a junior at Dumas High School and an active member of the Texas Association of Future Educators (TAFE). In his first year with TAFE, Cooper advanced to the state level in Public Service Announcement and Researching Learning Challenges, as well as the ELF Test, experiences that sparked a strong interest in educational leadership. At school, Cooper serves as Leo Club Treasurer, Junior Class Student Council Secretary, and Copy Editor for the yearbook, taking part in fundraising, communication, and organization efforts across campus. Outside of school, Cooper leads Wednesday night church services, assists in the church nursery, and worked as a Kids College Teaching Assistant at Amarillo College, supporting teachers and students during summer programs. Through involvement in both school and community activities, he has developed a commitment to service and leadership. He is excited about the opportunity to represent motivated students, grow within TAFE, and contribute positively to education at the state level.

 

 

State Ambassadors

 
Izi Crossett
Stephen F. Austin State University, Area 6

Hi! I'm Izi Crossett, a TAFE State Ambassador, recent graduate of Kingwood High School, and former State Secretary. I'm passionate about education and leadership and I'm planning to major in Early Education in the Fall at Stephen F. Austin State University.

TAFE has given me the opportunity to lead, grow, and inspire future educators and I'm so excited to continue that journey in college while helping TAFE members grow into the best version of themselves. 

Aubrey Fisher
Cleburne High School, Area 10

Hey everyone! As some of you may know I'm Aubrey Fisher. Last year I served as your state historian and this year I am proud to say that I am one of your state ambassadors!

This year I head into my senior year and boy am I excited! I have learned so much from TAFE and I am so thrilled for this upcoming year. Let's continue to bloom together! Can't wait to see all of you! 

Jacque Roe
Texas Tech University, Area 8

Hey y'all, I'm Jacque Roe. Last year, I served as the TAFE State Vice President, and I will be one of your ambassadors this year! I recently graduated from Lockhart High School, and will be majoring Communication Studies at Texas Tech University in the Fall. 

TAFE has awarded me with some great experiences, and I am so glad that I have this opportunity to mentor and help the new officer team!