Celebrating Community Leadership: Cortly Witherspoon of Winfield Elementary
In Baltimore County, educators are not just teaching; they are actively engaged in transforming lives. Cortly Witherspoon, the community schools liaison at Winfield Elementary School, exemplifies this ethos through his dedicated work and commitment to social activism. A member of the Education Support Professionals of Baltimore County (ESPBC) and part of the Maryland State Education Association’s (MSEA) 2024-2025 Minority Leadership Training cohort, Witherspoon’s journey is inspiring and impactful.
At Winfield Elementary, Witherspoon wears multiple hats as a CARE (Caregiver, Assistance, Resource, and Engagement) liaison. His role places a strong emphasis on humanity and community involvement. He collaborates closely with the school’s community coordinator to empower families and caregivers, encouraging them to actively participate in their children’s education. This holistic approach not only fosters shared decision-making but also strengthens the community’s ties and enhances the overall educational experience for students.
The Community Resource Cottage, where Witherspoon is based, serves as a vital hub for students and their families. It is stocked with essentials such as food, school supplies, uniforms, and household items, ensuring that no child goes without necessary resources. This resource center also plays a crucial role in connecting families with additional community-based services, further promoting their well-being and quality of life.
Witherspoon’s awareness of union activism dates back to his previous experiences, despite not having been a union member before his current role. Within just a week of starting at Winfield, he found his building representative, demonstrating his commitment to aligning his work with union principles and values. His extensive background in social and political activism has equipped him with the tools to advocate effectively for the rights of workers and communities alike.
A lifelong advocate for change, Witherspoon’s activism began in his middle school years where he worked with the NAACP to promote initiatives that uplift the African American experience. More recently, he served as the president of the Baltimore City Southern Christian Leadership Conference, where he fought for a $15 minimum wage, further showcasing his dedication to social justice.
The summer of 2024 brought new opportunities for Witherspoon as he worked with ESP Summer Organizers. This initiative focused on promoting the ESP Bill of Rights, enabling him to connect with various education support professionals and strengthen the collective voice for respect and dignity in the workplace. His experience at the 2024 MSEA Summer Leadership Conference was another highlight, where he engaged with passionate union members during workshops that enhanced his leadership skills.
Currently, Witherspoon is dedicated to addressing racial, social, and economic justice (RSEJ) initiatives within the ESPBC. As part of the 2024-2025 MSEA Minority Leadership Training cohort, he is committed to deepening his understanding of the intersections between public education and the union movement. Personal commitments also play a significant role in his life, as he serves as a foster parent, further demonstrating his dedication to nurturing the next generation.
Cortly Witherspoon is a beacon of hope and action in his community, committed to advocacy, education, and leadership. His work at Winfield Elementary not only enriches the lives of students and families but also embodies the spirit of community service and social justice. With grounded principles and a dedicated heart, Witherspoon is making strides toward a brighter future for all.
