Pacelli Catholic Schools has hired an interim president.

Jim Hamburge started around the beginning of July, according to board of trustees member Father Jim Steffes. The board hired Hamburge to replace president and principal Lori Walz, whose contract wasn’t renewed.

“We’re very blessed to have him,” Steffes said, adding Hamburge would bring the school stability and security while it looks for a permanent president.

Hamburge could not immediately be reached for comment.

So far, Hamburge has been working full time, getting to know staff and stakeholders with Pacelli. He has experience serving as president and principal at other schools, especially in the Twin Cities area, Steffes said.

“He has hit the ground running,” Steffes said.

Walz was hired at Pacelli in July 2012 after the previous president of the school, Joseph Steepleton, retired from the district.

The new president is the fourth Pacelli has had in three years. Steepleton replaced Mary Holtorf in August 2011, and Holtorf became vice principal and elementary principal.

Trustee Steve King said in June the hiring of a new president should not affect any calendar events for the upcoming school year.