Specifically:
* He inspired them: Keating's unconventional teaching methods, his passion for poetry, and his encouragement of independent thought sparked a fire in his students that the other teachers' rigid approach couldn't. He challenged their conformity and encouraged them to find their own voices.
* He showed genuine care: Keating demonstrated a genuine interest in his students' lives and aspirations, going beyond the curriculum to connect with them on a personal level. This fostered trust and respect.
* He challenged the status quo: The other teachers represented the rigid, conservative, and somewhat stifling Welton Academy establishment. Keating's rebellious spirit and defiance of tradition made him appealing to students who felt constrained by the school's norms.
* He was relatable: Unlike the distant and formal demeanor of other faculty members, Keating was more approachable and relatable, creating a bond with his students based on shared experiences and understanding.
In short, the students saw Keating as a teacher who truly cared about their development as individuals, not just as students achieving good grades. This is why they revered him, while his colleagues viewed him with suspicion and disapproval for his methods.