Cortly Witherspoon, a seasoned community school liaison at Winfield Elementary School in Baltimore County, is deeply involved in social activism and union work. As a member of the Education Support Professionals of Baltimore County (ESPBC) and a participant in the Maryland State Education Association’s (MSEA) 2024-2025 Minority Leadership Training cohort, he plays a crucial role in community engagement and support.
Witherspoon’s position as the CARE (Caregiver, Assistance, Resource, and Engagement) liaison allows him to focus on helping families become active participants in their children’s education. His work encourages caregivers to engage in shared decision-making and to support their children’s learning effectively. Operating from the Community Resource Cottage, he aids families by providing essential items like food, school supplies, and household goods while connecting them with additional community resources.
Starting two years ago, Witherspoon quickly aligned himself with the union, despite not being a member previously. His history of social and political activism began in middle school through initiatives with the NAACP, advocating for the enhancement of African American experiences, and more recently as president of the Baltimore City Southern Christian Leadership Conference, where he fought for a higher minimum wage.
This summer, he worked with fellow ESP members to promote the ESP Bill of Rights, connecting with potential union members and other educational support professionals committed to workplace dignity. His engagement continued at the 2024 MSEA Summer Leadership Conference, where he was inspired by the dedication of experienced union members.
Currently, Witherspoon is focused on racial, social, and economic justice issues as part of ESPBC’s ongoing efforts, while also expanding his knowledge through the MSEA Minority Leadership Training cohort. Beyond his professional commitments, he is a foster parent, embodying his belief that community service is essential to life. Witherspoon remains dedicated to advocating for justice, supporting educational initiatives, and preparing the next generation for impactful change.