Elma-Lorraine Diggs, a global health policy advisor and mother of two Montgomery County Public Schools students, is running for the District 5 seat on the Montgomery County Board of Education. The race is nonpartisan. It appears on the Nov. 3, 2026, general election ballot.

Diggs said on her campaign platform that she wants to strengthen connections between families, educators and community members in shaping local schools. She has framed her candidacy around equitable investment in students and stronger accountability for how the school system spends its money.

Candidate information

  • Office sought: Montgomery County Public School Board, District 5
  • Party: Nonpartisan
  • Education: Master of public health, Mercer University (2011); bachelor's degree in public health education and promotion, Liberty University (2007)

Experience and public service

Diggs is a global health policy advisor with two children in MCPS, MyMCMedia reported. Her professional background, according to BallotReady, spans roles in federal agencies, international organizations and the private sector:

  • Humanitarian policy and program advisor at USAID Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (2023–2025)
  • Program manager at the Center for Global Health Engagement (2018–2023)
  • Program manager at Metabiota (2015–2017)
  • Community health program manager at UNICEF (2012–2014)
  • Health policy intern at Rebuilding Basic Health Services (2011–2012)
  • Graduate research assistant at Mercer University Center for Rural Health and Health Disparities (2009–2011)

Her university biography at the Uniformed Services University confirms her master of public health degree from Mercer University.

On the issues

The following positions are drawn from Diggs' responses on BallotReady and her campaign website. They reflect the candidate's own statements.

Family and community engagement: Diggs said she would work to bring diverse perspectives into school decision-making. She described herself as a bridge between parents, communities and educators so families "are heard, represented, and included in shaping our schools."

Equitable access to education: Diggs said she would push for equitable investment so every child has access to high-quality education and programs that prepare them for college and career success regardless of zip code. She said she wants equity "delivered through action, not just policy."

Accountability and oversight: Diggs said she would bring leadership and strong oversight to the board. She said she wants to ensure every dollar and decision directly improves classrooms and student outcomes.

Endorsements

Diggs has been endorsed by the Maryland State Education Association, according to BallotReady.

  • Maryland State Education Association

Candidate responses were submitted through BallotReady and the candidate's campaign website. The Potomac Beacon presents this profile to help voters learn about candidates on the Nov. 3 ballot.