Influence of Parental Level of Education and Parental Income on Students’ Academic Performance in Public Day Secondary Schools

Kipkelion Sub-county academic performance has been dismal for the last five years (2007 - 2012). Study investigated the influence of home environment on students’ academic performance on the influence of: parental level of education, and parental income on students’ academic performance in public day secondary schools, based on Ecology System Theory by Bronfenbrenner. A sample of 210 form four students were selected using stratified and simple random sampling based on the causal-comparative research design, since manifestations of independent variables on dependent variable had already occurred. A questionnaire was used to solicit information on students’ home environment. Whereas, document analysis was used to collect information about the students’ academic performance based on Mock Examination. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as: ANOVA. Study revealed that the parental income significantly influenced students’ academic performance. However, parental level of education had no effect on students’ academic performance. Study recommends strategies to put in place with a view of improving students’ academic performance like: active participation of parents on students’ academic affairs regardless of parental level of education. Therefore, this research determine the influence of parental income and learning which significantly influenced, this will sensitise the parents, teachers and stakeholders on how address these factors so as to improve students’ academic performance. Keywords: influence, home environment, parental income, parental level of education, academic performance