LeBron James surprised the students at his I Promise School in Akron, Ohio, on Wednesday, Sports Illustrated reports.
James dropped by the school to celebrate the students’ final day of the academic year before sending them off for summer break.
In 2018, the Los Angeles Laker made a public commitment to help the disadvantaged youth in his hometown access opportunities, mainly through education.
The students were thrilled when he entered their classrooms, and various video clips captured their joy and humorous reactions to seeing the NBA champion. He spoke and hugged students, teachers and administrators.
Sometimes, there just aren’t words when your hometown hero @kingjames walks into the room. 😮🤪 🤷🏾 pic.twitter.com/rJrHkBmHQs
— I PROMISE School (@IPROMISESchool) May 26, 2022
— Dr. Jake Ashcraft (@DirkDiggler421) May 26, 2022
“Appreciate y’all letting me crash your last day of school!! Love you all and have a fun and safe Summer. Don’t forget what we talked about,” James said in an Instagram post on Wednesday, according to ESPN.
When @KingJames stops by the @IPROMISESchool for a surprise. 🤩🥹 Which reaction was your favorite? 😆 pic.twitter.com/XnVT2IcTHl
— LeBron James Family Foundation (@LJFamFoundation) May 26, 2022
The 37-year-old enjoyed the children’s energy and retweeted a video of the them celebrating his arrival.
Through the I Promise School, students who complete the school’s program will have the opportunity to attend the University of Akron with free tuition. James also created other initiatives, including a program for parents to complete their high school education, as well as a program that helps high-school-aged students prepare for college, ESPN reports.
By 2029, he aims for 1,200 students to pass through the program and attend college.
