Former NCAA Division I student-athlete brings 23 years of educational experience to TPH Academy’s newest campus

COLUMBUS, OHIO – TPH Academy is proud to welcome Shannen Rook as Head of Academics for TPH Academy Columbus, opening for the 2026-27 academic year at OhioHealth Chiller North.

Shannen brings 23 years of experience in education, academic instruction, student support, and individualized mentorship. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Ohio University and a Master of Education from Cambridge College in Boston. She also holds a Gifted Intervention Specialist certificate, strengthening her ability to support students with a wide range of learning styles and academic needs.

Her career includes 15 years teaching middle school English and eight years serving as a substitute school counselor. That combination of classroom instruction and holistic student support has shaped an educational philosophy centered on student autonomy, personal accountability, and meaningful mentorship.

A former NCAA Division I volleyball player at Ohio University, Shannen understands firsthand the unique demands placed on high-performing student-athletes. Her experience gives her valuable insight into the time management, discipline, and mindset required to pursue excellence in the classroom and in athletics.

“Shannen brings the educational experience, leadership, and firsthand perspective we want guiding our student-athletes,” said Nate Handrahan, Director and Head of Hockey for TPH Academy Columbus. “As a former Division I athlete and lifelong educator, she understands the commitment required to pursue excellence in both academics and athletics. She will play an important role in building a culture where every student-athlete feels supported, challenged, and prepared for what comes next.”

As Head of Academics, Shannen will lead the academic experience within TPH Academy’s Study, Train, Play model, which combines a flexible, accredited academic program with on-site support, individualized planning, and sport-specific development built into the school day. She will monitor academic progress, communicate with families, and help student-athletes strengthen essential skills such as time management, organization, self-advocacy, and independent learning while supporting course planning, NCAA eligibility, and college preparation.

Welcoming student-athletes this fall to OhioHealth Chiller North, TPH Academy Columbus will bring academics, hockey development, strength and conditioning, and mentorship together in a single structured school day. Led by Nate Handrahan, the hockey staff includes goaltending coaches Nick Petraglia and Bailey Seagraves and player development coaches Josh Harrold and Brian Thompson.

TPH Academy Columbus is creating a comprehensive local development environment for dedicated student-athletes throughout Central Ohio. Enrollment is now open for the 2026-27 academic year. To learn more about TPH Academy Columbus or begin the application process, please fill out the form below.

About TPH Academy:

TPH Academy is an international, academy-style environment where dedicated student-athletes study, train, and play at their highest potential. TPH Academy’s core purpose is to lead the world in the holistic development of student-athletes, advancing — in and beyond the game — the next generation of impact players. Through a flexible, accredited academic model, onsite academic support, individualized planning, world-class coaching, and sport-specific training, TPH Academy equips student-athletes with the structure and support to pursue excellence without compromise. Learn more in the TPH Academy Impact Report.