LeBron James' Ohio school struggles with achievement rating

In Akron, Ohio, LeBron James' I PROMISE School, established in 2018, continues to face severe challenges regarding student achievement. Recent data indicates that the school's performance in math and language arts remains critically low, with alarming figures reported for the 2024-25 academic year. Just two out of seventy-five seventh-graders (a mere 2.7%) passed the state math proficiency test, far below the state average of 50%. Furthermore, proficiency rates for other grades linger in the single digits or low teens, presenting a stark contrast to the Ohio state averages, which are typically 40-50 points higher. The school's performance in language arts is similarly troubling, with not a single grade showing proficiency close to state levels. These trends illustrate the ongoing struggle the school faces in progressing academically, raising questions about the effectiveness of its educational model. However, despite the low achievement scores, the Ohio Department of Education recognized the school with a four-star rating for 'Progress,' suggesting that the school has exceeded student growth expectations. Statistical evidence cited by the Department supports this assertion, indicating that some improvement has been made in student performance outcomes. For context, in prior years, it was reported that not a single eighth grader had passed the state math proficiency test, highlighting the persistent difficulties that this school has encountered. In 2019, LeBron James expressed optimism regarding the school's impact on its students. He emphasized the transformative journey these kids are undertaking compared to their struggles in previous public schooling. The latest results, however, challenge these optimistic projections and compel stakeholders to reassess the effectiveness of the school's educational strategies.