6 Ways to Being a Great Teacher

1. Foster Meaningful Relationships with Students

Why it matters: Students are more likely to engage, learn, and behave well when they feel respected and understood by their teacher.

How to do it:

• Learn names quickly and use them often.
• Show genuine interest in students’ lives—ask about their interests, attend extracurricular events, and celebrate birthdays or achievements.
• Create a safe space by setting clear boundaries, modeling respect, and consistently responding to students’ emotional and academic needs.
• Hold restorative conversations when conflicts arise instead of just punishing behavior.

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2. Communicate Transparently and Regularly with Parents

Why it matters: Parents want to feel involved and informed about their child’s education.

How to do it:

• Send weekly or bi-weekly updates via email or apps like ClassDojo, Remind, or Google Classroom.
• Host proactive parent meetings rather than only calling when there’s a problem.
• Be clear and professional when explaining grading, classroom policies, and behavior expectations.
• Make positive contact first (a phone call, email, or note home about something good) so future conversations are rooted in trust.

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3. Master the Craft of Teaching

Why it matters: Content knowledge and instructional effectiveness earn respect and improve learning outcomes.

How to do it:

• Stay current with best practices through professional development and educational literature.
• Differentiate instruction to meet diverse learning needs using small group instruction, choice boards, and tiered assignments.
• Use formative assessments regularly to adapt teaching in real time.
• Plan engaging lessons that connect to real-world issues and integrate technology meaningfully.

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4. Display Professionalism Consistently

Why it matters: Administrators and parents expect teachers to act as role models and leaders.

How to do it:

• Be punctual and prepared for all classes, meetings, and school events.
• Dress professionally and maintain a calm, courteous demeanor—even under pressure.
• Document issues thoroughly and communicate concerns appropriately (e.g., through proper channels, not gossip).
• Respect school policies and be a dependable team member.

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5. Be Reflective and Open to Feedback

Why it matters: Great teachers are learners too. Respect grows when others see you are humble and committed to growth.

How to do it:

• Regularly reflect on lessons—What worked? What didn’t? Why?
• Invite feedback from students (“What helps you learn best in my class?”) and colleagues.
• Act on evaluations by setting goals and tracking your own improvement.
• Model a growth mindset to students by being honest about mistakes and showing how you learn from them.

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6. Build Bridges with Administrators

Why it matters: Administrative support can amplify a teacher’s influence and provide valuable resources and recognition.

How to do it:

• Keep administrators informed of student successes, classroom innovations, or potential problems before they escalate.
• Invite them into your classroom to see creative projects or student-led activities.
• Volunteer for committees or initiatives that align with your strengths.
• Offer solutions, not just complaints, when presenting challenges or concerns.