PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- A Providence middle school science teacher was arrested at Nathanael Greene Middle School on Friday, Target 12 has confirmed. City spokesperson Josh Estrella said Joseph Gannon, 50, is facing one count of first-degree sexual assault and one count of producing or transferring child pornography. Gannon was arrested at the school at noon on Friday. The investigation remains ongoing, according to Estrella. Providence Public School District spokesperson Jay Wegimont told Target 12 the district worked to ensure the arrest warrant "was executed without issue." Wegimont said the teacher was placed on leave, but did not clarify if it was paid or unpaid. "We cannot confirm any further information and are reaching out to members of the school community to provide the necessary supports," Wegimont added. Nathanael Greene Middle School A search of Gannon's name in the R.I. Department of Education's public educator verification portal shows that Gannon is a certified general science teacher for grades 7-12 at Nathanael Green Middle School. Gannon was listed on Nathanael Greene's staff directory as of Friday afternoon. “RIDE is aware of the allegations, and we take them incredibly seriously. The safety and wellbeing of our students is our top priority, and we will support authorities in their investigation into this matter," RIDE spokesperson Victor Morente told Target 12. Target 12 obtained a copy of a joint letter from Providence Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez and the school's principal, W. Jackson Reilly. "Please keep in mind that this is an allegation and no determination as to whether or not this occurred has been reached," the letter said. (Story continues below image.) Greene-Letter-092024-2Download The letter explained in addition to placing the teacher on leave, the school district filed a suspected child abuse or neglect report with the R.I. Department of Children, Youth, and Families. "Please be assured that we will continue to promptly and proactively work to address any allegation that would compromise the safety and well-being of our students," the letter said. "Our goal is to ensure that every student grows and learns in a safe and welcoming environment." Alexandra Leslie ([email protected]) is a Target 12 investigative reporter covering Providence and more for 12 News. Connect with her on Twitter and on Facebook.