WTOP/Mike Murillo

WTOP/Mike Murillo

WTOP/Mike Murillo

WTOP/Mike Murillo

WTOP/Mike Murillo

Courtesy Michael Quander ( 1 /6)

He’s not just teaching music, one D.C. teacher is using music to spark conversations about history, identity and change.

Now, Christopher Alberts, who is already a Grammy-nominated educator at the School Without Walls, is being honored as the 2026 D.C. Teacher of the Year.

Alberts thought he was simply leading his students in a performance when he was asked to sit on stage with his band on Thursday. But then came the surprise.

“So ladies and gentlemen, I’m proud to say that the 2026 D.C. Teacher of the Year is Christopher Alberts,” Mayor Muriel Bowser said.

As his students erupted in cheers, Alberts wiped away tears.

“To have these guys behind me when th

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