Loading your ballot results. Please wait.
Loading your ballot results. Please wait.
Board of Education Member · District 3 · Charles County · 2026 Primary
Members of the Board of Education oversee the local public school system by setting educational policies, approving the annual operating budget, and hiring the superintendent. They make key decisions on matters such as student curriculum, school boundaries, and the maintenance of school facilities. This office is important because its members determine how tax dollars are spent to support student learning and the overall quality of schools in the community.
View all candidates in this raceChristopher O.J. Alberts is a Charles County resident and educator with over two decades of experience in public education, currently serving as Director of Performing Arts and instrumental music teacher at School Without Walls High School in Washington, D.C. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Howard University and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Relay Graduate School of Education. Alberts was named the 2026 DC Teacher of the Year by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) during a surprise celebration announced by Mayor Muriel Bowser on October 16, 2025. He is running for Charles County Board of Education Member at Large to bring his extensive teaching experience and student-centered perspective to education policy in the county. His candidacy is sponsored by the Friends of Christopher O.J. Alberts.
Sources: Campaign website
"My aim is to promote growth, inclusivity, and appreciation for diversity through education."
"I am choosing to run now because I believe my 20 years of experience as an educator uniquely positions me to contribute valuable insights to the Charles County Board of Education."
"My commitment to education goes beyond policy; it's deeply rooted in the day-to-day interactions with students, teachers, parents, and the community."
"I invite the community to join me in shaping a school system that prioritizes the holistic well-being and potential of every student. Together, let's build a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive educational environment."
Source: coja.my.canva.site
Student-Centered Education
Alberts emphasizes meeting people where they are and understanding diverse needs within the school community through open communication, empathy, and inclusivity.
“"Perspective: Meeting People at Their Level. Committed to understanding and connecting with all members of the school community on a personal level. Emphasis on open communication, empathy, and inclusivity to address diverse needs and concerns."”
Unleashing Student Potential
He advocates for individualized learning plans and diverse extracurricular opportunities that recognize every student's unique potential.
“"Potential: Unleashing the Unique Talents Within. Recognition of every student's unique potential and a commitment to creating an educational environment that encourages exploration and development. Advocacy for individualized learning plans and diverse extracurricular opportunities."”
Cultural Awareness and Inclusivity
Alberts is dedicated to expanding cultural awareness within the school community, with a focus on inclusivity in sports, recreation, and an annual music and arts festival.
“"Opportunity: Cultural Awareness and Inclusivity. Dedicated to expanding cultural awareness and understanding within the school community. A focus on inclusivity in sports, recreation, and an annual music and arts festival to celebrate and showcase diverse cultural expressions."”
Community Connection Through Arts
He believes learning should extend beyond classroom walls through performance, dialogue, service, and cultural exchange that expand students' sense of purpose.
“"As an educator, I believe learning should never be confined to the four walls of a classroom. Some of the most transformative experiences happen when students engage directly with the world, through performance, dialogue, service, and cultural exchange."”
External sources report that Christopher O.J. Alberts was named the 2026 DC Teacher of the Year by Mayor Muriel Bowser during a surprise celebration at School Without Walls High School on October 16, 2025. He has devoted more than two decades to public education, including 16 years in D.C. Public Schools, and is known for blending classical and digital instruction to inspire students. Alberts is a four-time Grammy Music Educator Award nominee who oversees a vibrant performing arts program at his school.
“"My aim is to promote growth, inclusivity, and appreciation for diversity through education."”
Source“"By meeting people where they are, providing opportunities for personal and academic growth, and exposing them to different cultures, we can cultivate a more empathetic and understanding community of musicians and music lovers."”
Source