He might be a major celeb and one of the most well-known and accomplished sports figures of all times, but this basketball star does much more than than you might expect an A-lister to do. LeBron James opened a public school in Akron, and is now helping at-risk third and fourth graders!
The I Promise School in Akron, Ohio is a public, non-charter elementary school. The NBA star’s foundation, appropriately named the LeBron James Family Foundation, is the top donor—giving the students a chance that they might not otherwise have.
Set up here at the I Promise School awaiting LeBron James' entrance. In a word: wow. Everyone involved in this effort should be proud. pic.twitter.com/IOkwgRXQKG
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) July 30, 2018
Not only will the third and fourth graders in the Akron Public Schools’ elementary get their fill of academics, but the teachers and staff will also help the kiddos to combat outside factors that could stop them from getting the education that they need and deserve. This includes “wraparound” services for the students and their families (such as a food pantry and help finding suitable housing).
The school also has a seven-week summer program Each student even gets a free bike—that was James’ mode of transportation to school when he was a child—and a Chromebook!
So how did James get involved in this project? Well obviously the Ohio native has a soft spot for Akron. Reportedly James and Michele Campbell, the executive director of his foundation, were brainstorming ideas. When Campbell mentioned the idea, James jumped on it.
Even though James and his foundation are a major part of the school, the project couldn’t have come together without the parents, teachers, school administrators, volunteers, students and corporate sponsors that devoted time, energy and funds.
—Erica Loop
Featured Photo: LeBron James via Instagram
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