Cortly Witherspoon, a community schools liaison at Winfield Elementary School in Baltimore County, has been recognized for his extensive involvement in social and political activism. As a member of the Education Support Professionals of Baltimore County (ESPBC), he is also engaged in union activism. This year, Witherspoon is part of the Maryland State Education Association’s (MSEA) 2024-2025 Minority Leadership Training cohort, which focuses on leadership development.
In his role as a CARE (Caregiver, Assistance, Resource, and Engagement) liaison, Witherspoon applies his lifelong principles of humanity to support families and caregivers in a community school setting. He collaborates with the community school coordinator to encourage family engagement, enhance decision-making regarding students’ success, and find resources that assist in the learning process.
Witherspoon operates out of the Community Resource Cottage, which provides essential items such as food, school supplies, uniforms, and household goods. The cottage also serves to connect families with community-based services aimed at improving their overall well-being.
Having begun his role two years ago, Witherspoon quickly immersed himself in union activities by connecting with his building representative. Even though he was new to union membership, he brought experience from past collaborations with labor organizations and an understanding of the values that underpin unionism.
His activism began in middle school, working alongside the NAACP to advocate for initiatives that uplift the African American community. More recently, he served as president of the Baltimore City Southern Christian Leadership Conference, campaigning for a $15 minimum wage.
Over the past summer, Witherspoon engaged with ESP Summer Organizers to promote the ESP Bill of Rights and foster connections with potential union members. This experience allowed him to meet fellow CARE liaisons, paraprofessionals, and other professionals advocating for workplace respect and dignity. He also attended the 2024 MSEA Summer Leadership Conference, where he gained valuable insights from experienced union members and built connections with emerging educators.
Currently, Witherspoon is participating in ESPBC’s initiatives focused on racial, social, and economic justice issues. His involvement in the MSEA Minority Leadership Training cohort will help him deepen his understanding of these critical topics and explore the intersections of public education and the union movement. Additionally, he serves as a foster parent, underscoring his commitment to community engagement.
Witherspoon firmly believes in the idea that service is the rent we pay to live on this earth, dedicating himself to community service, advocating for justice, supporting the union, and preparing future generations for success.