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DuPage Stormwater Committee honors student winners of Sustainable Design Challenge
Summary
The Stormwater Committee recognized student teams from Lake Park High School and Glenbard East High School for designs addressing stormwater, energy and sustainability; the program engaged roughly 400 students over the year and 71 active participants this season.
The DuPage County Stormwater Committee moved item 10 on its May 6 agenda to present awards for the county’s Sustainable Design Challenge and recognized student teams from Lake Park High School and Glenbard East High School.
Kaye, a program organizer, told the committee the initiative is in its 19th year and this season involved 71 students directly and roughly 400 students overall when counting classroom participation and students unable to attend because of conflicts. Organizers thanked county staff and outside volunteers who support presentations and tours.
The committee identified Lake Park High School’s Lotus Lattes as the best overall LEED design. The Lotus Lattes’ proposal featured a coffee shop using recycled steel, low‑carbon glass and cork flooring, and included a greenhouse, a pond with an energy‑producing water wheel, solar and wind energy, and piezoelectric walking tiles. Teachers Frank Novakowski and Michelle Schenk joined the team at the dais.
Glenbard East High School received two awards. Reboot the Planet won best stormwater design for a sustainable home on a brownfield site using a constructed wetland, native landscaping, permeable pavers, a gray water system and a green roof. Judges praised practical features such as hempcrete insulation and bamboo. The Crotal Club won best energy design for a mobile tiny home oriented for seasonal solar gain, built with bamboo materials, denim insulation, solar panels and a small windmill; judges noted the team’s rehearsal and discussion of potential barriers.
A student from the Lotus Lattes described how the team wrestled with accessibility and waste reduction when designing a café that aims to reduce car trips. Program organizers said the hands‑on presentations and expert panels provide students exposure to stormwater management, green building and energy conservation careers.
The committee received the presentation as an informational item; no formal action was required.
