LeBron James’ $25.5m foundation faced criticism: Why did Akron’s school spark questions?

LeBron James’ connection with Akron goes well beyond basketball. His foundation has spent years supporting children in his hometown through education and family programs. But the work has also faced difficult questions. The I PROMISE School came under academic scrutiny after disappointing state test results in 2023. Three years later, the foundation continues to back Akron’s children, with a new Nike partnership giving students another opportunity to learn, grow and build confidence.The latest program adds a different kind of lesson. Instead of focusing only on grades, it puts students in the pool and teaches them a skill that can stay with them for life. Poor test results put LeBron James’ I PROMISE School under serious scrutinyThe criticism became public in July 2023 after Akron Public Schools reviewed state testing data from the 2022-23 school year.