The school has been designed by Juan Gabriel Moreno Architects (JGMA) on a concept that is based on an innovative approach of integrating soccer with traditional curriculum, including science, social studies, math and physical fitness. The new school will be located in close proximity to the UNO Soccer Academy elementary school in Chicago.
The new Soccer Academy High School has been designed for approximately 960 students in ninth through twelfth grades, and spans 79,000 square feet. It is part of a larger campus that includes a stadium, a community plaza and an elementary school.
The building will be developed in strict compliance with the environmental principles, based on which it is being aspired for at least LEED silver certification. The new high school is scheduled for opening in 2013.
The project is being funded by means of an $18 million funding from the state under its Illinois Jobs Now! capital investment programme. UNO also secured a $1 million Brownfields loan from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which will be used for the removal of the hazardous waste and petroleum contamination from the construction site.
