Sights and Sounds from the 1st Week of LeBron James’s New I Promise School for At-Risk Kids in His Hometown of Akron, Ohio
This article is a part of a series on that showcases the courageous individuals, triumphs, success stories, and acts of kindness that can be found in schools all across America. For more inspiring profiles, please visit The74Million.org/series/inspiring.
If anyone has the ability to make school an appealing and exciting place, it’s LeBron.
Just by stepping foot into the brand-new I Promise School in Akron, Ohio, one is immediately greeted by an impressive chandelier, a split staircase with elegant curves, and a display of 114 pairs of sneakers worn by LeBron James during his games.
These sneakers, lining the walls of the school’s lobby, set the atmosphere for the 240 at-risk third- and fourth-graders who were fortunate enough to be the first students in this groundbreaking collaboration between NBA superstar LeBron James, his LeBron James Family Foundation, and his hometown of Akron, Ohio. Monday morning marked the beginning of their educational journey at the I Promise School.
The age of these initial students is significant. They are at a crucial point in their young lives, a point that LeBron James himself considers to be a turning point in his own life. He attributes his current achievements and success to the support he received from his fellow student athletes and caring adults, particularly his mother.
Addressing a crowd of over 2,000 individuals, including students, parents, VIPs, and an abundance of media, LeBron stated, "I know exactly the challenges that these 240 kids are facing. I am familiar with the streets they walk on and the hardships they endure, because I have experienced them."
The school has plans to expand and include grades 1 through 8 by the year 2022.
On the first day of school, LeBron admitted to feeling more nervous than the overwhelmed, wide-eyed students. He described it as "one of the greatest moments of my life."
Principal Brandi Davis, an Akron native, is confident that the I Promise School will become an influential model of urban and public school excellence. She emphasizes the importance of comprehensive support, family involvement, and compassion in the school’s philosophy.
The I Promise School adopts a holistic approach to education, extending its services far beyond the traditional classroom setting. The school provides breakfast, lunch, and a snack during extended school hours, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., operating from July 30 to May 17. Additionally, there is a seven-week summer school program. Teachers at the school are offered personal workout trainers as an added benefit.
Parents of students attending the I Promise School have the opportunity to earn their GEDs and receive job training. Students themselves are immersed in a curriculum that combines humanities with STEM learning. They have access to tutors and an English-as-a-second-language teacher. Furthermore, the school offers emotional support, career guidance, and other essential services to both students and parents throughout the year. Each student is given a new bicycle and helmet, encouraging physical fitness and exploration outside of their often dangerous neighborhoods.
As the cherry on top, starting in 2021, every graduate of the I Promise program will receive free tuition at the University of Akron, thanks to James.
The foundation’s aspiration is to enable more than 1,200 Akron children to attend college by 2029, as reported by ABC News.
"It’s an actual functioning school! In my hometown." LeBron James expresses great joy when discussing one of the most significant moments of his life: the opening of a public school that not only offers education to at-risk families, but also provides them with food, transportation, financial assistance for college, and a sense of belonging.
James stated in an interview with the Akron Beacon Journal, "What it ultimately boils down to is that somebody cares about their future. We want the future to include exceptional police officers, politicians, doctors, nurses, musicians, or whatever path they choose. We hope this school can nurture and develop those talents."
Educators interviewed by Yahoo News have praised the concept and James’s innovative approach. This sentiment is shared by a multitude of his fellow NBA stars, as well as one former First Lady.
Former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama expressed their pride in LeBron James and the I PROMISE School, highlighting the positive impact he has both on and off the basketball court. They believe that the children in Akron and across the United States are fortunate to have him as a role model, encouraging them to aim high and achieve their goals.
Dwyane Wade, a close friend of James, commended him for utilizing his platform to make a difference, showing his admiration and respect.
Chris Paul, another NBA player, congratulated James for staying true to his word and chasing his dreams, which has provided hundreds of kids with the opportunity to realize theirs. He emphasized that this achievement goes beyond basketball and signifies the significance of James’s actions.
Carmelo Anthony, a fellow NBA player, also congratulated James on the opening of the I PROMISE School, acknowledging its unique and special importance.
Sign up for Newsletter to receive more inspiring stories like these directly to your inbox.
