An Ottawa music teacher is facing charges for allegedly sexually assaulting children dating back to the year 2000.

Police announced Friday that they have charged 56-year-old Gerard Loehr with five counts of sexual assault and five counts of sexual interference after an investigation that began in May.

The charges involve five children who were students of his, police said.

In a statement issued Friday, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board said it has been co-operating with police since the investigation began, and that Loehr was "removed from the classroom" and will remain out of the classroom "until the conclusion of this matter through the courts.

"These are very serious and troubling charges involving children," the statement added.

The board also said it gets in touch with the Ontario College of Teachers in cases such as these to determine whether any further employment-related action is needed.

Investigators believe there may be more cases to investigate, and police are asking anyone with information to call them at 613-236-1222, extension 5760, or provide an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.