Sean “Diddy” Combs has pledged $1 million to a network of charter schools for a new location in the Bronx. Capital Preparatory Schools has been approved to open the school in September with 160 6th- and 7th-graders. The goal is to expand to 650 students in grades six through 11 over five years, according to an announcement Tuesday (Oct. 23).

The music mogul and Harlem native is a longtime education advocate. He worked closely with Capital Prep founder Steve Perry to expand the network that already has schools in Harlem and Bridgeport, Connecticut.

“I came from the same environment these kids live in every day,” he said in a statement. “I understand the importance of access to a great education, and the critical role it plays in a child’s future. Our school provides historically disadvantaged students with the college and career skills needed to become responsible and engaged citizens for social justice.”

“Mr. Combs’ commitment and leadership continue to inspire us. On behalf of the Capital Prep students, parents and teachers I want to express our sincerest gratitude for such a generous gift,” Dr. Perry said. “We know that the families in the Bronx deserve a high-quality academic alternative to their current system. In fact, 40% of our applicants to our Capital Prep Harlem school, 600 kids, have come from the Bronx so there is a real need to serve students in this area. Mr. Combs wanted to open schools to develop leaders. What he’s done with his investment is embody what we expect students to do, which is to invest their resources in our communities.” Source:AP