This study investigates the impact of school management factors, specifically principal leadership styles and teachers’ characteristics, on students’ academic performance in private secondary schools in Rivers State, Nigeria. Drawing on a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 40 principals and 60 teachers using questionnaires. The research objectives include examining the relationship between principal leadership styles (such as autocratic, democratic, and laissez-faire) and students’ academic performance, as well as assessing the influence of teacher characteristics (including teaching experience, qualification, and in-service training) on academic outcomes. Findings are expected to shed light on effective management strategies to improve student achievement in secondary education.