CORTLAND COUNTY, N.Y. -- Nicholas Thomas, 26, has taught social studies at Cortland Junior Senior High School for the last two years. But now, he's been suspended without pay.

Thomas has been charged with raping a 15-year-old female student. He was arrested for the crime Saturday.

"Actually, this development is not entirely surprising to us. We've been cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation for several days," said Cortland Schools Superintendent Larry Spring.

Police say they conducted several interviews and searched Thomas' classroom before making the arrest.

The high school's principal sent a letter home to parents Monday to help address their concerns on the issues, which the letter describes as disturbing news.

The letter invites parents to call with concerns and goes on to say, "The best thing everyone can do right now is not to spread rumors or gossip. Counselors will be available everyday as always to talk personally with your child if needed."

Superintendent Spring says teachers are doing their best to keep students focused, but says the news will no doubt impact them, too.

"I'm sure that once they go home and they have a chance to catch their breath, that it will begin to sink and that shock and disbelief and that questioning of how could this really happen, and did this really happen or what's really going on will begin to set in," said Spring.

Thomas is also charged with endangering the welfare of a child. He is free on $1,000 bail and is due back in court June 18th. Police say further charges are possible.