Melvin Cotton, Jr.

Melvin Cotton Jr. is vice chair of the Portsmouth School Board. His official biography connects ministry, communications and education. A graduate of I.C. Norcom High School, he is pastor of Mount Carmel Baptist Church and has worked through It Shall Be Done Communications. His education includes degrees from Liberty University and Virginia Union University.

Cotton’s biography also describes early learning in the building trades. That experience provides a practical connection to the range of pathways students may pursue after high school, including further education and skilled work. Board discussions about opportunities are most useful when families can understand who is eligible, how to participate and what support students will receive.

The School Board’s official directory is the starting point for his current role and biography. Residents can follow proposals through meeting materials and ask specific questions about access, implementation or resources. For an individual student issue, contact the school team through the appropriate process rather than disclose private details in a public meeting. His serving term and any provisional election status should be read separately.

Official profile or first-party background · Representation and meeting resources.