Cortly Witherspoon serves as the community schools liaison at Winfield Elementary School in Baltimore County, where he is deeply committed to supporting families and caregivers in his role as the CARE (Caregiver, Assistance, Resource, and Engagement) liaison. With a strong background in social and political activism, he is also an active member of the Education Support Professionals of Baltimore County (ESPBC) and participates in the Maryland State Education Association’s (MSEA) Minority Leadership Training cohort for the 2024-2025 year.
At Winfield Elementary, Witherspoon focuses on fostering family engagement and empowering caregivers to take an active role in their children’s education. He collaborates closely with the community school coordinator and utilizes the Community Resource Cottage, which provides essential items such as food, school supplies, uniforms, and household goods. Additionally, the cottage serves as a hub for connecting families with various community services aimed at improving their overall well-being.
Having joined the team two years ago, Witherspoon wasted no time in getting involved with the local union, quickly locating his building representative. Although new to union membership, he holds a long-standing respect for unions, having previously collaborated with them and aligning with their mission and core values.
Witherspoon’s commitment to activism has roots that extend back to his middle school days, where he engaged with the NAACP to address issues affecting the African American community. Most recently, he served as president of the Baltimore City Southern Christian Leadership Conference and advocated for a higher minimum wage.
This past summer, Witherspoon worked alongside ESP Summer Organizers to promote the ESP Bill of Rights and connect with prospective union members. His role allowed him to network with other educators and support staff who are dedicated to improving working conditions. He also attended the MSEA Summer Leadership Conference, where he enhanced his skills and built connections with fellow union activists.
Witherspoon is now involved with the ESPBC’s initiatives addressing racial, social, and economic justice issues and is gaining deeper insights into the intersections of public education and union activism. Alongside his professional pursuits, he is also a foster parent, reinforcing his belief that service is essential to living a meaningful life. He remains steadfast in his commitment to community support, justice advocacy, union solidarity, and preparing future generations for success.