Courtney’s colleague praises him for his other-directed service: “I see him working hard every day to improve the lives of his students, his colleagues, and his mother.”

Courtney R. Parker Jr. is a Detroit-based educator who exemplifies dedication and innovation in his teaching career. Growing up in Detroit’s Eastside, he was inspired by dedicated teachers and motivated by his own experiences as a Black, gay, and economically disadvantaged student. His early experiences fuel his ambition to increase teacher diversity and address the impact of poverty in Detroit Public Schools. 

Previously, Courtney graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in secondary education, concentrating in social science and English. Currently, he teaches English and language arts at Southeastern High School in Detroit, where he cultivates an engaging and inclusive learning environment for all students. This year, he will pursue a graduate degree in educational leadership and policy at U-M’s Marsal School of Education. Courtney aims to mobilize community resources and implement equity-based strategies to support students and enhance educational outcomes.

Courtney’s commitment to educational excellence extends beyond the classroom. Most recently, he was an Iconic Michigan Teacher Fellow in partnership with the Michigan Learning Channel, where he emphasized student voice and creative teaching through technology. Additionally, Courtney participated in the Teacher Wellness Professional Learning Community with the Black Male Educators Alliance and served as a teacher and researcher for the Research for Action’s Black Teacher Participatory Action Research initiative. His findings were presented at the American Educational Research Association’s Annual Meeting. His journey also includes being an AmeriCorps member during his undergraduate years, which reflects his enduring commitment to community service. 

Courtney’s colleague praises him for his other-directed service: “I see him working hard every day to improve the lives of his students, his colleagues, and his mother.”

CEW+ commends Courtney’s vision for equitable education and names him the Terry L. and Patricia A. Stanley Scholar.