On Tuesday, news came down the wire stating that plans for LeBron James’ “I Promise” school in his hometown of Akron, Ohio have been approved.
According to ESPN and The LeBron James Family Foundation, the new school, which is scheduled to open for third and fourth graders next fall, will focus on educating at-risk students.
The LeBron James Family Foundation says the “I Promise” School in Akron will be geared toward educating students who are at risk of falling behind. It will have longer days and begin classes in the summer — weeks before other district schools — to encourage information retention.
Earlier this week, James’ production company, Springhill Entertainment, announced that they’ll be filming a documentary series in partnership with Morgan Spurlock of Warrior Poets based on the new school.
“Being able to create this school to specifically meet the needs of these kids and their families means everything to me,” James recently told variety.com. “There are so many kids and families struggling, and we want this school to be a safe, positive place that helps them stay on the right track to earning their educations. Having Spring Hill Entertainment and an amazing filmmaker like Morgan Spurlock here to document this process is huge.”
Growing up in the inner city can be tough on anyone — a fact James knows all too well. However, with a bit of hard work and dedication, these kids will now have an opportunity to earn a college scholarship.