The LeBron James Foundation is at it again.
LeBron James’ work in Akron, the town where he grew up, has been astonishing. James has consistently provided educational help to Akron through donations, buildings, experiences, and more.
This time, the LeBron James Family Foundation is opening a new public school in Akron.
Called the “I Promise School,” the Foundation is partnering with Akron public schools to open a school. The school is for at-risk youth who are falling behind their peers, especially in reading. Opening in the fall of 2018, the school will start with third and fourth grade. By the fall of 2019, the school will be open to first and second graders as well.
the LeBron James Family Foundation has always targeted at-risk youth in Akron. James believes that opening a school is the next logical step in supporting Akron and its children. This announcement is on the heels of the I Promise Institute, an initiative that supports students graduating from Akron public schools.
Even after LeBron left for Miami in 2010, he has always supported Akron. “The Decision” special, in which LeBron chose the Miami Heat, ended up donating $3 million to a charity. The Foundation also launched a $40 million After School All Stars program. Recently, the University of Akron launched an I Promise mentoring initiative through a donation in what is now the University of Akron LeBron James Family Foundation College of Education. The I Promise initiative provides a full, four-year scholarship to the University of Akron for students, the first of whom will graduate in 2021.
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As always, LeBron James is looking for ways to help at-risk youth in Akron, and the I Promise program, which will eventually span from first grade all the way through college graduation with its various iterations, is the primary way he has chosen to help.