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‘14 Under 14’ awards amplifies voices of ‘remarkable kids’ in Cedar Rapids
Honor from Kids First Law Center awarded to 14 kids who show leadership, empathy, kindness and perseverance
Feb. 18, 2026 6:00 am, Updated: Feb. 18, 2026 7:55 am
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CEDAR RAPIDS — Hoover Elementary School third-grader Sadam Akili is a peacemaker, an active participant in the classroom and a creative problem solver, his teacher said.
“He comes in every day ready to learn and do his personal best,” said Angela Streeper, Sadam’s teacher. “He is respectful, responsible and one of the most empathetic third-graders I’ve ever taught. … Sadam is a great friend to others. He shows empathy and kindness to his peers and jumps in when others are struggling or having a conflict and helps them find a solution.”
Sadam is one of 14 students in the Cedar Rapids Community School District recognized Tuesday with a “14 Under 14” award from Kids First Law Center, which represents children in custody and divorce conflicts. The program highlights young leaders under the age of 14 for exemplifying positive leadership qualities like good citizenship, problem-solving, empathy and kindness.
The students are nominated by educators and staff in their schools. A selection committee narrows the nominees to 14 recipients. This is the fifth year recognizing students for 14 Under 14.
"Our mission is to make children's voices heard," said Jenny Schulz, executive director of Kids First. "The 14 Under 14 Awards amplify the voices of young people who are inspiring others. These remarkable kids prove that age is no barrier to meaningful leadership, problem-solving, and change.”
Sadam, 8, said he was surprised to learn he is a recipient of the award, saying other kids also deserve the recognition.
“It’s important everyone can be happy. If someone is sad, I help them out,” Sadam said.
His favorite part of the school day is lunch — especially when it’s spaghetti — and reading intervention, where he’s currently learning about the solar system.
Sadam wants to be a firefighter when he grows up because he loves “playing with fire” — safely, of course, his aunt, Meegan Hofmeister, said.
At school, Sadam also is a part of gardening club and was the only student in the club last year to try a hot pepper, which he described as “very, very hot.”
Another student being recognized with a 14 Under 14 award is Gabi Cousins, 13, an eighth-grader at the Roosevelt Creative Corridor Business Academy,
Gabi said the award means a lot to her.
“It shows me what I am capable of and pushes me to want to do more and be more involved in my school by trying harder in my classes, asking my teachers for more opportunities, helping other kids and trying to be a good leader,” she said.
Gabi said she tries to be a “helping hand” and encourages her peers by sharing that “when you put in the effort, it helps so much.”
She said she is motivated by a “teacher that cares.”
“My favorite teachers and the ones I learn the best from are the ones that make it clear they want a connection with their students. It makes me feel appreciated and want to come to class and learn,” Gabi said.
Gabi just completed her Future City project for PACT, a program for academic and creative talent. The project challenges students to make a city for 100 years from now.
She said her team wanted to ensure the citizens of their city feel “welcomed and cared for.”
Travis Fuller, a PE teacher at Roosevelt who nominated Gabi for the award, said she is “an example of what every student should strive to be.”
Fuller said Gabi comes to class with a smile on her face and is an active participant. “People see what she does, and they follow her,” he said.
Other honorees
Here are the other students recognized by the “14 Under 14” awards and what the selection committee said about them:
- Damari Anderson, 12, a sixth-grader at Wilson Middle School, is an artist and principled role model who chooses optimism and kindness regardless of outside influences.
- Jaxson Carter, 13, an eighth-grader at Harding Middle School, is a selfless leader who helps those in need and creates an empathetic and kind environment.
- Brynlee Fennern, 13, an eighth-grader at Taft Middle School, is a natural and inclusive leader who does the right thing even when it’s hard.
- Madison Gunther, 12, a seventh-grader at Franklin Middle School, uses empathy, tenacity and maturity to empower others while focusing on her goals.
- Italy Martin, 13, an eighth-grader at the McKinley STEAM Academy, has transformed her academic performance into one of leadership and peacemaking through self-reflection and perseverance.
- Paulina Monarrez, 10, a fifth-grader at Van Buren Elementary, is a selfless leader who uses compassion and initiative to contribute to her school and community.
- Nolan Reeder, 11, a fifth-grader at the Kenwood Leadership Academy, humbly uses his artistic talents to build a culture of kindness and inclusiveness.
- Eli Saul, 10, a fifth-grader at Pierce Elementary, is an academic leader with a passion for literacy who fosters an inclusive and kind school culture.
- Vara Schuler, 11, a fifth-grader at Grant Wood Elementary, uses her quiet courage to stand up for the vulnerable and ensure every student feels included.
- Noah States, 10, a fifth-grader at the Johnson STEAM Academy, is a genuinely kind and empathetic friend whose character shows his strength.
- Johniyla Williams, 11, a fifth-grader at the Cedar River Academy, is a confident advocate with a bold heart who mentors peers and excels in school.
- Judah Wing, 11, a fifth-grader at Wright Elementary School, is a compassionate and inclusive advocate and a joyful presence that uplifts everyone around him.
Comments: (319) 398-8411; grace.king@thegazette.com
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