I'm a HD in a school you've never heard of. I want out of this district for lots of district-level reasons that won't change any time soon. How do I make myself more marketable in the large school head director market? No shade on small schools, I've done it before and I prefer to stay the 5A/6A level.

I have a track record as a turnaround guy. I've taken multiple programs from mediocre to consistent Div 1. I'd love to get to the next level - a program that is at least in the running at Area marching, Honor Band process, Mark of Excellence, etc. I've hit a ceiling here and we're nowhere close to that level. We won't get any better until the district fixes some things.

My current district argued with me about spending the money for Area contest because we've consistently placed toward the bottom, they're not going to support honor band (but the football team always goes to playoffs with a losing record and loses again in the first round).

I would consider another turnaround gig if the district support is there.

I've applied for head director positions and rarely a call. Usually I see later that they promote an assistant, I get it.

I've applied and interviewed for assistant positions at schools I want. I'd take that job if it was offered, but I can't seem to convince the panel that I'd be happy to take a step back and learn from someone who's doing it better than me.

Is it worth sending out resumes preemptively? Should I email fine arts directors or head directors with my interest, even if they don't have a job up?

I'm quietly working my network through friends in the business, music store reps, etc. Trying to keep it quiet for my current kids and colleagues.

What else can I do to put myself out there?