Summer 2025 Newsletter

Peg Codding knows firsthand the power of a safe place, and the life-changing impact of people who care.

It was Peg’s grandmother, a devoted Christian minister, who knew of the Colorado Christian Home (today known as Tennyson Center Children) and made the connection that would change the course of Peg’s life. In 1957, at just four years old, Peg and her seven-year-old brother came to CCH to receive essential care, consistency, and support. The Colorado Christian Home became their home for approximately ten years. The siblings attended public schools and maintained limited family contact. This was a time of uncertainty, but also the beginning of a lifelong journey rooted in healing, growth, music, and education.

At Tennyson, Peg discovered her love for the arts. She took ballet and piano lessons, including with Ms. Abraham, a Holocaust survivor who came from Auschwitz to teach music to children. “She changed my life,” Peg recalls. That early connection to music would set her on a path to becoming a nationally respected educator, therapist, and advocate.

After graduating high school, Peg earned a Ph.D in music therapy and music education. Her career spanned the country: from developing a music therapy program at a school for the blind in Nashville to another in residential psychiatric treatment in a men’s correctional institution in Ohio. She served as faculty and researcher in universities, spending the last 20 years of her teaching and practice at The Berklee College of Music in Boston. Her work has benefited all ages, children though older adults, by providing access to evidence-based therapy through music.

Throughout her journey. Peg never forgot the program that has since transformed into Tennyson Center for Children. Values of kindness, nurturing, and resilience shaped her, and today, she plans to give back to ensure future generations have the same success, Peg is a proud member of Tennyson’s Heritage Society, having made a legacy gift in her will to support the children and families served by the organization. ”My path has been successful because someone figured out how to nurture and mentor” she says. “This is the role of Tennyson today.”

Now living in Colorado, Peg continues to advocate for change and healing from domestic uncertainty and violence. She recently published a book of poetry entitled, “Balance of Delicate Things,” and participates in performances using her voice to speak out on the impact of childhood trauma and the power of recovery. She hopes to use her collection to promote change.

Peg’s story is one of full-circle transformation. She hopes her legacy will live on in the children who find hope, healing, and purpose at Tennyson.

Tennyson students made remarkable strides this year, with 53 crossing the finish line in June, many demonstrating the most significant gains seen in years. More than 80% completed diagnostics and academic assessments, a 10% increase from 2024, giving teachers valuable insight into each student’s growth and areas for continued support. 

End-of-year celebrations matched the achievements. Field Day brought laughter and cheers across campus, and a volunteer massage therapist reminded staff that their well-being is vital to student success. This commitment is reflected in a new policy. Every Tennyson employee now receives one paid mental health day per quarter, underscoring that caring for children begins with caring for the caregivers.

Summer programming builds on this momentum with weekly field trips to places like the Inventing Room, the Museum of Illusions, the Museum of Nature and Science, the Aquarium, and more. These excursions spark curiosity, support social development, and protect against the “summer slide.”

Tennyson is expanding its educational team to meet the evolving needs of our students. One classroom will now serve more upper-elementary and early-middle grade learners, increasing our capacity for personalized support. The middle school program is also welcoming additional staff to enhance both academic and behavioral support.

The physical education program welcomes a former collegiate football player who brings inclusive, ability-based fitness challenges. A beloved art instructor is also returning after 17 years to spark creativity and connection through expressive arts. These additions mean smaller learning groups, more diverse elective offerings, and stronger classroom coverage, three essential elements of trauma-informed education.

Behind the scenes, educators are planning a bold leap forward in classroom technology: a one-to-one laptop ratio and upgraded smartboards in every room. With reliable devices, students can more easily draft essays, model math thinking, and complete diagnostics. Interactive boards will turn lessons into immersive experiences.

Our campus is alive with learning, laughter, and preparation for the year ahead. Tennyson remains a place where healing and education go hand in hand, and where every child is supported in becoming the strongest version of themselves. As we gear up for the new school year, you can help us bridge the digital divide. Whether by underwriting a device, donating gently used hardware, or offering technical expertise, your support moves students closer to success. Together, we’ll ensure they leave Tennyson not just stronger, but ready to thrive.

When “R” arrived three years ago, she was convinced she would stay at Tennyson forever. She often ran from class, argued with peers and staff, and refused to complete assignments. This spring, she wrapped up the semester with excellent grades, over 90% assignment completion, and was honored with the “Most Improved” award for major growth in core academic areas. Once dreading exams, she now embraces new educational opportunities.

This fall, “R” will return to her local public school, a powerful reminder that with consistent relationships, personalized academics, restorative accountability, and strong family partnerships, change is not only possible, but also inevitable.

— “R’s” Teacher

Tennyson’s annual FORE! Our Kids Golf Classic was an unforgettable day of community, camaraderie, and shared purpose, all in support of Colorado kids and families. With Fortress Development Solutions as our presenting sponsor and the generous backing of our participants and other sponsors, we raised nearly $120,000 to help kids reach their full potential.

Congratulations to our first-place team, BT Construction! Whether you were swinging clubs or cheering us on from afar, thank you for driving our mission forward.

Summer at Tennyson is more than sunshine and play, it’s a season of healing, learning, and hope. When you give during Colorado Gives Summer of Giving, you help children who’ve experienced trauma receive therapy, education, nutritious meals, and the safe, stable environment they need to thrive.

Our goal is to raise $15,000 this summer to support kids like the 9-year-old who arrived quiet and withdrawn, but is now building friendships, gaining confidence, and smiling again.

Every gift makes a difference.

Join us during Colorado Gives Summer of Giving to help create brighter futures!

Has Tennyson made a difference in your life? A quick Google review – just a few words or even a star rating – can go a long way. Positive reviews help us attract quality staff, generous donors, dedicated volunteers, and the families who need us most. It only takes a minute, but your voice can open doors for kids and families on the path to healing.

VOLUNTEER

Your support makes a difference and has a direct impact on the lives of those who need us most.

EVENTS

Mile High Q & Groove: September 12

Operation Giving: December

Paths to Healing Luncheon: April 16