ABSTRACT

This study examinedhow the school environment affects students' academic performance in public junior secondary schools in Oredo Local Government Area, Edo State. A sample of 146 teachers from 13 schools was selected from a population of 234 through simple random sampling. Using a descriptive survey design, data was collected via the School Environment Questionnaire (SEQ) and a checklist assessing 2020 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) results. Data analysis included mean, standard deviation, ANOVA, and Chi-square tests.

Findings indicate that the school environment significantly impacts students' academic performance, with infrastructure, facilities, and teaching methods playing a crucial role. Excellent academic performance was observed among students, with significant correlations between the school environment and academic outcomes, influenced by school location and size.

Recommendations include emphasizing the need for investment in school infrastructure, equitable resource distribution, and continuous teacher development. Special attention should be given to underperforming schools and increasing community involvement to support academic success.

The study highlights the importance of a conducive school environment for academic achievement and suggests further research into long-term impacts, urban-rural differences, and students' perspectives. These findings are vital for educational improvement and policy development.