Wausau's high-performance windows contribute to Chicago's Goode Academy's sustainability goals, 1200-student facility

Sarah E. Goode STEM Academy welcomed its first freshman class. The new six-year program focuses on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) to foster college and career readiness. Supporting this innovative learning model, STR Partners LLC, lead designer in a joint venture, designed the new three-story, 207,000-square-foot facility to meet future growth, as well as sustainability goals.

Demonstrating this accomplishment, Goode Academy anticipates 1,200 students through phased enrollment and LEED Gold certification through the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Contributing to the school’s design, Wausau Window and Wall Systems provided high-performance windows and curtainwall systems emphasizing daylighting, views, interior comfort, recycled material content, condensation resistance, energy efficiency and thermal performance requirements.

Part of Chicago Public Schools, Goode Academy is named in honor of Sarah E. Goode, the first African American woman to receive a United States patent. She was a freed slave, an inventor and furniture designer, and a Chicago business owner.

Goode Academy connects high school, college and the world of work through dynamic partnerships, such as with IBM. The students are encouraged to pursue careers in technology and given the opportunity to graduate with industry certifications and up to two years of college credit. Students also benefit from workplace learning experiences through internships and professional mentors.

“About 80% of our firm’s work is for schools,” explains Ken Shiokawa, senior project designer with