Cortly Witherspoon serves as the community schools liaison at Winfield Elementary School in Baltimore County, focusing on community engagement and support for families. With a rich background in social and political activism, he is also an active member of the Education Support Professionals of Baltimore County (ESPBC) and is participating in the Maryland State Education Association’s (MSEA) 2024-2025 Minority Leadership Training cohort, aimed at developing leadership skills among union members.
In his role at Winfield Elementary, Witherspoon embodies the principles of humanity by acting as the CARE (Caregiver, Assistance, Resource, and Engagement) liaison. He collaborates with the community school coordinator to foster family involvement, empowering caregivers to take active roles in their children’s education and providing resources for their support.
Based at the Community Resource Cottage, Witherspoon facilitates access to food, school supplies, uniforms, and other essential items, while also helping families connect with local services that enhance their quality of life.
Witherspoon, a former student activist with a longstanding commitment to social justice, has advocated for the African American community since his middle school days through organizations like the NAACP. He has also held leadership roles, such as president of the Baltimore City Southern Christian Leadership Conference, where he campaigned for a $15 minimum wage.
This summer, he collaborated with ESP Summer Organizers to promote the ESP Bill of Rights and engage with potential union members, building connections with other educational professionals dedicated to workplace dignity. Additionally, he participated in the 2024 MSEA Summer Leadership Conference, gaining insights from experienced union members and forming new alliances.
Currently, Witherspoon is involved in addressing issues related to racial, social, and economic justice as part of the ESPBC’s initiatives. He believes strongly in the importance of community service and views it as a responsibility, dedicating himself to advocacy for justice, union support, and the empowerment of future generations.