Getting to know your students means you'll have a better sense of how each one learns. Every student takes in information differently, and the same teaching method may not get through to every student. By getting to know your students, you'll get to know how each can learn most effectively and cater a lesson to his needs.
A student needs to feel comfortable in a classroom. Taking the time to get to know a student's personality, interests and background will establish a sense of trust and respect that will make her feel more at home in the classroom.
If you have a strong relationship with your students, you are more likely to communicate effectively with them. You'll know how each student communicates and how to get through to him, especially in a busy classroom setting. Everyone absorbs information differently, and getting to know your students will help you understand each other more easily.
Every student you meet will come from different home situations or cultural backgrounds. Getting to know your students will allow you to learn about these differences, which you can use to refine lessons for them. Depending on their backgrounds, some students may have been raised with different ideals, traditions and issues than what you'll teach, and it's important to learn about these from your students.
As a teacher, your job is to help a student grow intellectually, socially and emotionally. Getting to know your students personally will let you appreciate their individuality on every level, enhancing their learning experience and your teaching experience.