LeBron James’ decision to leave Cleveland for the Los Angeles Lakers drew more headlines last July, but that same month, he also decided to give back to his native Akron, Ohio by opening the doors on his “I Promise” school for at-risk children.

The school is already exceeding expectations. A story from New York Times reporter Erica Green reveals that, while still early, the school’s inaugural class of third and fourth graders are posting “extraordinary” test scores, with increases at a higher rate than 99 out of 100 schools across the country.

The school has drawn a lot of praise, including from one Barack Obama.

LeBron’s foundation covers the cost of additional teaching staff, after-school programs and family resources, the latter of which is regarded by educators as key to the school’s success.

“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,” LeBron told the Times.

For all of his success in sports, LeBron has been very involved as an activist and philanthropist as well. Championships are one thing, but to be remembered for giving back to the community and changing lives is another entirely, and it’s a special part of LeBron’s legacy that he’ll leave behind.

But that doesn't mean he can't have any fun with it! Before the season started, LeBron joined Channing Tatum on the Ellen Show to do some ridiculous dares, all for another $100,000 towards the school.

 

h/t New York Times