LeBron James Presents $1 Million For I Promise School Gym

LeBron James

LeBron James Presents $1 Million For I Promise School Gym

LeBron James (aka King James) surprised students at his I PROMISE school in his hometown of Akron, Ohio. James made the announcement at his alma mater, St. Vincent St. Mary High School, pledging $1 million for a new gym at that will be used for physical education and after-school activities while also serving as a safe space for children. The Lakers superstar collaborated with sports giant, Dick’s Sporting Goods. He stated,

“To my kids, this is more than a gym. The Dick’s Sports Matter program is helping us provide even more opportunities. An opportunity to play and learn in a safe place that many don’t have access to. I can’t imagine where my friends and I would be if it weren’t for the coaches and teachers who cared about us and the opportunities we had.”

He continues, adding how important being active is for kids is as they grown into young adults.

“I believe the sky is the limit for these kids and the results we’re seeing are just the beginning. Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation believes in the opportunities and values sports provide, and I’ve experienced that at every level. I saw it growing up with my teammates and I see it with my kids now. The benefits of playing sports can extend to every aspect of your life, and I’m excited we’re able to provide a space for that growth at the I Promise School.”

According to reports, data shows students who are physically active and play sports have higher test scores, get better grades and are absent less at school. James’ school has already made success in just under a year of operations. Last month, 90% of students at I PROMISE School reportedly met or exceeded individual growth goals in recent district assessments, outpacing students across their Akron, Ohio, district and making “extraordinary” test score improvement.

90%. ? Ninety ? Percent of our students have met or exceeded their expected growth in math and reading ? …and they’re just getting started. #WeAreFamily #IPROMISE pic.twitter.com/UUrsjyxmSn

— I PROMISE School (@IPROMISESchool) April 12, 2019

The 3-time NBA champion explained,

“These kids are doing an unbelievable job, better than we all expected. When we first started, people knew I was opening a school for kids. Now people are going to really understand the lack of education they had before they came to our school. People are going to finally understand what goes on behind our doors.”

The school boasts a 20-to-1 student-teacher ratio, year-round programming and a 9-to-5 school day to keep its children engaged. With serving students free breakfast, lunch, and snacks, James’ I PROMISE school not only aids in improving kids grown in his hometown, but the school includes services for the student patents as well.

Check out a video of James’ surprising announcement below: