Former LINC staffer, pastor elected as first Black Independence School Board member

Photo from Facebook @amondainemusic

A former LINC part-time staffer made history election night.

The Rev. Anthony Mondaine won a seat on the Independence School Board April 5 and will serve as the district’s first Black representative.

Mondaine, the pastor of Restoration Life Church in Independence, is remembered at LINC from when he served on staff at the LINC before- and after-school program at Nowlin Middle School a decade ago.

Mondaine celebrated the moment with his followers on Facebook, noting that he is the first Black candidate to win any public office in Independence. “Long overdue,” he wrote.

“This accomplishment is a great step forward for our city.,” he continued. “We are living in times where sound, loving and representative leadership is so essential to our future! I made the decision to run because I believe I can make a positive difference in the lives of the staff and students of ISD. Independence, let’s celebrate together!”

Well-wishes came flooding after Mondaine’s victory, including a Twitter post from Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas.

“My congratulations . . .,” Lucas wrote. “This is a wonderful moment for all in Independence Schools.”

Jackson County Executive Frank White also praised Mondaine on Twitter and called him an inspiration.

“His historic win ,” White wrote, “will inspire Independence youth for the next six years and beyond.”