LeBron James ’ I PROMISE School in Akron, Ohio, opened in 2018 as part of his long-running effort to support students in his hometown. The school opened with 240 third- and fourth-grade students. The wider I PROMISE programme, however, began before the school, in 2011, and includes Akron students outside the school itself. In 2026, students in the programme reached an important milestone, with eligible seniors earning college scholarships to institutions including the University of Akron, Kent State University and Stark State College.
Created through a partnership between the LeBron James Family Foundation and Akron Public Schools, the school was designed to provide more than classroom education, combining academic support with social-emotional resources and help for families.
The I PROMISE School officially opened on July 30, 2018, with an inaugural group of 240 students in grades three and four. James announced a major college scholarship commitment in 2015, partnering with the University of Akron to provide eligible I PROMISE students with an opportunity to receive four-year college scholarships. Eligible students must remain continuously enrolled in Akron Public Schools from grades three through 12, complete 120 hours of documented community service, graduate with at least a 3.0 GPA and achieve a minimum 20 ACT score, according to the foundation.
It was established through a partnership between the LeBron James Family Foundation and Akron Public Schools. The school was created to serve students identified as being behind academically and facing factors that could put them at risk of falling behind or leaving school. Its model combines traditional education with additional support intended to address challenges students may face outside the classroom. The school is a public school within Akron Public Schools, rather than a private school operated solely by James or his foundation. The scholarships are not automatically awarded to every student who participates in the programme. Students must meet specific requirements to qualify. The programme’s approach extends beyond students’ classroom performance. The I PROMISE School provides resources for families through initiatives including its Family Resource Center. The foundation has also developed the I PROMISE Village, a transitional housing programme intended to assist students and families facing housing instability and other serious challenges. The goal is to address some of the circumstances that can affect a child’s education, recognising that academic success can depend on stability at home as well as what happens inside the classroom.
The I PROMISE programme started before the school
the broader I PROMISE initiative dates back to 2011 Although the school opened in 2018. Because the I PROMISE School and the I PROMISE Program are not exactly the same thing, this distinction is important. The LeBron James Family Foundation began working with Akron Public School students through the I PROMISE Program, providing academic assistance, incentives and support for students and their families. The programme eventually developed into a wider education initiative that included the dedicated I PROMISE School. The programme includes students who attend other Akron Public Schools.