LeBron James CLEVELAND, OH – MARCH 25: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts during the first half against the Washington Wizards at Quicken Loans Arena on March 25, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

At a time when it seems the education cutbacks are closing down schools in cities across the country, LeBron James is pitching in to open one. In a joint effort with Akron public schools, James is opening a school specifically for at-risk kids in need of a proper educational experience.

The “I Promise School” will be sponsored by James’ foundation and will be scheduled to open the doors in 2018. The school will be for third and fourth graders initially, and will eventually grow to add first through eighth grade in the four years after the initial opening.

“This school is so important to me because our vision is to create a place for the kids in Akron who need it most — those that could fall through the cracks if we don’t do something,” James said. “We’ve learned over the years what works and what motivates them, and now we can bring all of that together in one place along with the right resources and experts. If we get to them early enough, we can hopefully keep them on the right track to a bigger and brighter future for themselves and their families.”

James has been giving back to the community throughout his NBA career, and this is just the next big project on the growing list of charitable and community efforts for the basketball star. With all he has done for the Cleveland and Akron communities over the years, James may be making a case for another accolade in the future.

MVP. NBA champion. All-Star. Nobel Peace Prize? Sure, maybe someday. Stranger things have happened.

[Associated Press]

About Kevin McGuire

Contributor to Athlon Sports and The Comeback. Previously contributed to NBCSports.com. Host of the Locked On Nittany Lions Podcast. FWAA member and Philadelphia-area resident.