Meet the State Officer Team

President: Jaxon Tomlinson
Cleburne High School, Area 10

Hello TAFE members! My name is Jaxon Tomlinson, and I am an upcoming junior at Cleburne High School in Area 10. I am incredibly honored and excited to serve as your 2026–2027 TAFE State President this year.

Through my time in TAFE, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in chapter events, competitions, service projects, and conferences that have truly shaped me as both a leader and a future educator. These experiences have helped me grow in confidence, build connections with others across the state, and deepen my passion for education. Because of that, I’m so excited to help expand these opportunities for all of you during my term.

As State President, I am committed to making sure every member feels welcomed, supported, and inspired within our organization. I want every student in TAFE to feel like they have a place to belong and a voice that matters. This year, I’m especially excited to work on increasing participation across the state, strengthening connections between chapters, and finding new, creative ways to promote the teaching profession to students.

I can’t wait to see all that we accomplish together this year and continue growing TAFE into an even stronger community. Thank you for allowing me to serve you!

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. I am a sophomore at Denton High School in Denton, Texas. I have been in TAFE since 8th grade, which is around three years. I have been a state qualifier every year I’ve been in TAFE, most recently advancing in four events, which are Portfolio, Project Visualize, ELF Test, and Public Service Announcement. I currently serve as the Secretary for DHS TAFE, and in the past as the Area 10 Historian.

Outside of TAFE, I am involved in the Denton High School’s band program, where I am a part of the jazz band playing bass trombone, and in the marching and concert bands playing tuba. I also take International Baccalaureate classes, Dual Credit classes, and Advanced Placement classes in order to learn to the highest ability. 

I look forward to seeing TAFE grow to its greatest potential as the 2026-2027 State Historian. We already have something so great, and I can’t wait to see the best version of TAFE yet!

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.

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!