LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A local organization committed to turning troubled youth into productive members of society is working to expand its mission.
Schooler Prep Academy, located in the heart of the Portland neighborhood, has seen significant growth in its afterschool and summer programs over the past few years. Now, the nonprofit is looking for more space to keep up with the demand.
James Schooler, CEO of the academy, founded the organization to create a safe, productive space for local youth and improve community safety.
Schooler transitioned from a career in banking to coaching and mentoring young people, eventually focusing on offering academic support and extracurricular activities like basketball, engineering programs, and more.
“We can see anywhere from 500 to 700 kids a week,” Schooler said. “At times, there could be 1,000 or more kids in and out of the building, along with their families.”
Now, the academy is planning to expand to a larger campus in the NuLu district.
The new location will provide a more central and accessible spot for families across the city.
“I want it to be a place where families don’t have to drive far to give their kids the chance to grow,” Schooler said. “This expansion will be huge for those who travel across the city for practices, tutoring, and other activities.”
For Brittany Hill-Whitehead, whose 11-year-old daughter is a rising basketball star, a central location is exactly what’s needed.
“We already drive all over the city for practices,” she said. “Having a central location would make it so much easier for families like ours.”
The expansion comes as the academy continues to play a critical role in the community.
Metro Councilwoman Tammy Hawkins recently visited Schooler Prep and called the programs “vital” for local youth. Following her visit, Hawkins pushed for funding for the expansion to be included in the mayor’s budget.
Schooler knows firsthand the impact of losing a young person from the program.
“We’ve lost some kids—people I mentored,” he said. “That’s a memory that stays with you. It pushes me to do more.”
Schooler’s passion for helping young people grow is evident in every part of his work. He reflects on his own experiences coaching the Fern Creek boys’ basketball team, where he won championships.
"The reward for me is seeing these kids go on to college, the military, or become entrepreneurs."
The expansion is crucial, as the current space can no longer accommodate the increasing number of kids and families.
The academy runs numerous programs, including basketball leagues, an engineering studio, and academic tutoring, all of which have drawn hundreds of local kids.
“More space means more opportunities for our kids,” Schooler said. “It means more families will be able to join our community, and we can continue to support them in meaningful ways.”
To learn more about Schooler Prep Academy’s mission and the expansion, click here.
More Local News:
- 5 years after Breonna Taylor's death, Louisville leaders vow meaningful reform
- Louisville man arrested Wednesday had prior domestic issues with Middletown homicide victim
- West Louisville Kroger reopens after $1.8 million renovation
- 65-year-old man identified as victim of fatal shooting in Middletown
Copyright 2025 WDRB Media. All rights reserved.
