GREAT BEND — The Carthage Central School District has some new officers.

Barbara A. Lofink was sworn in as the Board of Education’s new president in the reorganizational meeting Monday night.

Ms. Lofink, who has been on the board since 2006, was approved in a swift 5-1 vote, with Anne M. Rohr casting the negative vote. Mary Louise Hunt was absent.

Board members re-elected Vice President Lori D. Miller to her position.

Superintendent Peter J. Turner and Assistant Superintendent Andrea K. Miller were also sworn into their new roles.

Ms. Lofink takes over from Michael P. Chevier, who had led the board since September 2009 during a tumultuous period for the district.

He succeeded former President John E. Peck. Mr. Chevier has been on the board since 2008.

Ms. Lofink began the meeting by thanking Mr. Chevier and Ms. Miller for leading the board during the turbulent past year.

Last August, former Superintendent Joseph M. Catanzaro and former board member Terry E. Freeman resigned, citing ethical differences with the way the district was being run.

Shortly thereafter, former Assistant Superintendent Jan B. LaRock followed suit by retiring for the same reason. Over the past year, Carthage district residents packed meetings to demand more transparency.

Recently, voters shot down a proposed $34.5 million capital construction project, 785-185.

“I would like you all to work as a team with me this year,” Ms. Lofink said. “I’d like to bring back the passion for learning.”

The board also passed a motion for all subsequent meetings to begin at 6 p.m.

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