Board OKs plan for LeBron James’ ‘I Promise’ school in Akron

AKRON (AP) — The school board in LeBron James’ Ohio hometown has approved the plan for a public school being created in partnership with the NBA star’s foundation.

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.

It’s scheduled to open next fall for third- and fourth-graders and add more grade levels in future years.

The idea is based on the foundation’s existing “I Promise” programs that encourage struggling students to stay in school.

Supporters cheered after the Akron School Board approved the school’s plan Monday.

New York-based production company Warrior Poets says it will soon begin filming a documentary series centered on the school in partnership with LeBron James’ production company SpringHill Entertainment.

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Cleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James, right, goes up for a shot against Philadelphia 76ers’ Robert Covington during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Nov. 27, 2017, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
http://www.limaohio.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/54/2017/11/web1_119303125-6f345d24402e44229579f0584899efd2.jpgCleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James, right, goes up for a shot against Philadelphia 76ers’ Robert Covington during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Nov. 27, 2017, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Cleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James, left, dribbles past Philadelphia 76ers’ Robert Covington during the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday in Philadelphia.
http://www.limaohio.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/54/2017/11/web1_119303125-78f56d99389a443d981830a0c2de0ad6.jpgCleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James, left, dribbles past Philadelphia 76ers’ Robert Covington during the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday in Philadelphia. AP Photo | Matt Slocum