St. Patrick’s Catholic School in Perry has temporarily filled its vacant principal position, after the recent departure of Eddie Diaz.

The school announced it has named Doug Latham as the interim principal while a search committee attempts to secure a permanent principal in the coming weeks. Latham was the principal of St. Pat’s who preceded Diaz, having held the post from 2014-16. The administration is hopeful they will have a new principal hired within the next month. Father Chris Reising, pastor of the St. Patrick Parrish, said in a statement, “The timing of this transition coincides with the start of a new school year, and I know this creates some challenges for our staff. At the same time, I have personally witnessed the dedication and love with which our teachers and staff treat each student, and the support they offer each other.”

He added that he’s confident Latham will help to bridge the gap effectively until a new principal is brought on board. St. Pat’s has yet to officially comment on the reason for Diaz’s abrupt departure, which came less than a week before the first day of the new school year.