The Most Important Qualities
of an Outstanding Teacher

An outstanding teacher is positive, optimistic, compassionate, humble, balanced, open, and forgiving. He or she has a good sense of humor. An outstanding teacher has the pragmatic skills of being dependable, organized, and flexible. He or she is creative and able to think "outside of the box.

An outstanding teacher is passionate about what he or she is teaching and truly loves what is being taught and who is being taught. An outstanding teacher is committed to the profession and to the students. He or she is knowledgeable about the subject and sets high, but attainable, standards. An outstanding teacher is dedicated to being a life-long learner and changes strategies when new, more effective methods are developed.

An outstanding teacher is able to communicate with others and build relationships with students and parents.

An outstanding teacher is patient, supportive, welcoming, non-threatening, and nurturing. He or she knows the students and what motivates them. He or she is comfortable with special learners and students with diverse needs. An outstanding teacher is truly able to reach and teach every student.