What Makes a Great Teacher: Traits That Matter Most

We’ve all had a teacher who left a lasting impression. The teachers who made us believe we were capable of greatness. But how did they do it? What skills do teachers need to be effective? What makes a great teacher?

If you’re exploring a career in education, you may be wondering whether you have the right qualities The good news? Many of the most effective traits have little to do with formal training—and everything to do with mindset, communication, and care.

1. Great Teachers Build Strong Relationships

Strong relationships form the heart of every great classroom. Students learn best when they feel seen and supported. Great teachers take time to connect. They ask questions, listen actively, and build trust with consistency.

Susan, an American Board graduate teaching in South Carolina, began her career in the school office. She formed supportive relationships with students and was able to see them as people with unique needs. That care is the heartbeat of her teaching. She doesn’t judge students by their past. Instead, she believes in their potential. “I’ve had some of the most wonderful students who were once labeled ‘bad’ or ‘lazy,’” she explains. “With support and motivation, they’ve excelled beyond belief.”

2. They Stay Curious and Keep Learning

Excellent teachers are always learning. They reflect on what’s working, what isn’t, and how to improve. They seek feedback and stay current with best practices. Growth is part of their mindset. Joining online communities for teachers is a great way engage with peers.

Adding an endorsement area or microcredential are options for teachers who want to pursue professional development.

3. They Communicate with Clarity and Purpose

Whether giving directions or providing feedback, great teachers speak with clarity. They adapt their communication for different learners and always aim to build understanding.

4. They Stay Calm Under Pressure

Classrooms aren’t always calm—but great teachers are. They manage stress, maintain boundaries, and respond rather than react. This emotional steadiness helps students feel safe.

5. They Care—Deeply

Above all, great teachers care. They care about their students, their communities, and their profession. That passion drives everything they do.

One American Board graduate, Trey teaching in Missouri, explains: “as a male teacher, some of these kids don’t have a dad or uncle at home. Or they are from a split family and perhaps their interaction with you at school is the only interaction they are having with a male role model that goes to work every day and looks out for them every day.” 

You’ve Got What Makes a Teacher Great

Many people discover their passion for teaching later in life—and bring invaluable experience with them. Some of the most successful educators began in other fields, including:

• Career-changers looking for work that feels purposeful
• Stay-at-home parents reentering the workforce with organization, empathy, and patience
• Military veterans who bring discipline, leadership, and service
• School support staff who already know what students need to succeed

You don’t need to be perfect to be a great teacher. You just need to be intentional, reflective, and committed to student growth. No matter your background, teaching is a career that welcomes real-world experience. Learn more about fast and affordable teacher certification today.

What Makes A Great Teacher: FAQs

• What are the 5 most important characteristics of a teacher? Personality-wise, we believe the five most important characteristics are strong communication, patience, adaptability, empathy, and a commitment to student growth. It should also be noted that strong content knowledge truly matters! You can’t teach what you don’t know.
• What makes you stand out from other teachers? Great teachers stand out by building strong relationships, staying reflective, and continually adapting to meet student needs. When interviewing for a new teaching position, give examples of how you meet these traits.
• What defines a great teacher? A great teacher is defined by their ability to inspire learning, foster trust, and make a lasting impact on students’ lives. Think you can do it? Get started today.