COVENTRY, R.I. (WPRI) — An investigation is underway after a Coventry elementary school staffer was arrested for allegedly assaulting a student. Petrina Lunardelli, 48, has been charged with simple assault and battery. Police confirmed the incident took place at Tiogue Elementary School, and court records indicate it happened on Dec. 12. Lunardelli turned herself on Monday and was released pending her formal arraignment, which is scheduled for Jan. 22. Tiogue Elementary School lists Lunardelli as a life skills teaching assistant in its online staff directory. 12 News reached out Lunardelli regarding the allegations, but she declined to comment. In a statement to 12 News, Coventry Superintendent Don Cowart explained that Lunardelli was immediately put on leave at the start of the investigation, but has since resigned from her position. "We take all matters seriously, especially when they involve the well-being of our students," Coward said, adding that the district cooperated fully with the investigation. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW