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2. They ask their biggest critics for feedback.

Change agents in education are surrounded by a supportive group of people that can and will give them honest feedback. No one feels scared or defensive in the exchange of feedback, because the educator has been intentional in creating a trusting environment where constructive criticism is welcome.

3. They fail fast and fail forward.

They know that failure is an imperative part of the creative process. Innovative educators are brave enough to try new ideas in and outside of the classroom.

4. They are passionately curious.

They are constantly learning. This is also why they are idea blenders, because their curiosity leads them into a new web-design class or a subscription to an entrepreneurship online magazine.

5. They believe in their students.

Title 1 funding that traditionally would have paid for an additional literacy specialist was allocated for the data strategist position.

The possibilities are endless when an individual's interests and skills are considered within the context of a school's needs. Such roles might also include community liaisons responsible for connecting families with various social services while plugging students into local job, volunteering, or community service opportunities. A keen interest in 21st-century skills might develop into a role that guides students to collaborate with others, synthesize information, and create something unique and useful for their peers.

The most prevalent barrier to hybrid teaching roles is the district-mandated staffing plan that leaves buildings with little opportunity to determine how personnel are allocated.