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 at Opportunity Central who enjoys staying involved and making a positive impact both at school and in my community. I’m an active member of TAFE, where I continue to grow my passion for education and leadership. Since middle school, I’ve proudly served as my school’s mascot, helping to spread school spirit, energy, and positivity. This experience has helped me build confidence, dedication, and strong connections with others.

Outside of school, I love singing, photography, and spending time with friends. These activities help me express my creativity and build meaningful relationships. I live in Forney and am inspired every day by the teachers who have supported and encouraged me throughout my journey. Because of them, I hope to become a teacher who creates a welcoming and engaging classroom where every student feels seen, supported, and excited to learn. My goal is to inspire students to believe in themselves and reach their full potential.

I’m so excited to serve as your Vice President for the 2026–2027 school year, where I look forward to growing as a leader, supporting my peers, and helping create new opportunities for involvement and success within TAFE!

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

Hey TAFE! My name is Cooper Sykes, and I am an upcoming senior from Dumas High School in Area 8. I am very excited to serve as your 2026-2027 TAFE State Historian!

I joined TAFE at the start of my junior year, and I currently serve as a representative for our chapter. Throughout my time, I have competed in Public Service Announcement and Researching Learning Challenges, advancing to both events at a national level. Outside of TAFE, I serve as the Junior Class Student Council Secretary, Leo Club Treasurer, and Copy Editor of our yearbook.

Through my involvement in both school and community activities, I have developed a commitment to service and leadership that I am excited to share with the state. I am excited about the opportunity to represent motivated students, grow within TAFE, and contribute positively to education at the state level!