More than a school. A second home.

Owner/CEO

Charanjeev Singh is the Founder & CEO of Chroma Early Learning Academy, a rapidly expanding early education network serving families across Metro Atlanta. Charan began his career in commercial and childcare real estate, where he discovered the growing need for high-quality, accessible childcare programs. This experience led him to open and operate multiple childcare centers, scaling from a single school to more than 20 locations in just a few years.

With over 14 years of business experience including hospitality, commercial development, childcare operations, gas stations, fuel supply and multi-unit management Charan specializes in transforming underperforming schools, building scalable systems, and creating family-centered environments where children thrive.

Under his leadership, Chroma has launched:

• Foundations for Learning Inc. (philanthropy arm)
• A multi-location growth plan expanding into new Georgia communities
• High-quality curriculum, safety systems, operational standards, and continuous quality improvement models
• Sister Company Chroma Early Start which is a Pediatric Therapy Company

Deeply committed to community impact, Chroma partners with local organizations, and leads initiatives supporting sliding-scale tuition, food drives, and family support programs.

COO

As Chief Operating Officer, Christi Wier drives our mission forward by leading strategic growth and building strong community partnerships across Georgia. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education management, Christi combines her deep operational knowledge with a keen eye for new opportunities—whether that’s expanding our locations, introducing innovative programs, or enhancing our enrollment initiatives.

Christi works closely with our leadership team to identify and develop relationships with families, school districts, and community organizations, ensuring our programs meet the needs of the communities we serve. Her focus on both quality and growth helps us strengthen our presence while maintaining the high standards of care and education that define our brand.

Christi’s passion for supporting educators, empowering families, and making high-quality childcare accessible to more children is at the heart of every initiative she leads.

VP of Education

DeAnna Thrasher is a dedicated and experienced leader in early childhood education with 20 years in the field. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Development and has dedicated her career to fostering high-quality learning environments for young children. Throughout her journey, she has held a variety of roles, gaining invaluable experience in teaching, curriculum development, program administration, and leadership. 

DeAnna lives in North Georgia with her husband and three children, embracing the joys of family life. She enjoys getting lost in a good book, exploring new places, camping, and enjoying the serenity of the beach. DeAnna values the simple moments that bring happiness and connection. 

DeAnna brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to child-centered education. She excels in mentoring educators, building strong family partnerships, and implementing innovative strategies that promote children’s growth and development. Passionate about early learning, DeAnna continuously advocates for high-quality early childhood programs that inspire both children and educators, ensuring a solid foundation for lifelong learning.

Vice President of Operations

As Vice President of Operations, Gabriele oversees locations in Gwinnett, Henry, Clayton, Fayette, and Coweta counties. With 16 years of experience in early childhood education, Gabriele brings extensive knowledge, leadership, and a deep commitment to excellence in program quality and operational success.

Throughout her career, she has served in a wide range of roles including Teacher across all age groups, Assistant Director, Director, Executive Director, Marketing Director, and Regional Director. This well-rounded experience gives her a comprehensive understanding of both classroom environments and organizational leadership, allowing her to support teams with both strategy and heart.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Gabriele is a proud mother of three children. Her personal and professional experiences blend to shape a leadership style rooted in empathy, collaboration, and a strong dedication to creating meaningful, high-quality early learning environments for children, families, and staff alike.

Director of Family Partnership and Learning Development

Courtney is an accomplished early childhood education professional with over 15 years of experience in the field. She has held various roles, including Lead Teacher, Academic and Operational Director, Program Coordinator, Early Childhood Program Specialist, Early Care and Education Specialist, Assessment Specialist, and Franchise Support Consultant for Quality Assurance. Currently, she serves as an Adjunct Instructor in Early Childhood & Care Education while pursuing a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership at Northcentral University.

With a strong background in curriculum development, regulatory compliance, and professional development, Courtney has dedicated her career to improving early childhood education programs through research-based best practices and innovative training solutions. She has experience working with renowned organizations such as Quality Care for Children, Discovery Point, and various childcare franchises, supporting administrators and educators in enhancing learning environments for young children.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Courtney is passionate about lifelong learning and personal growth. She enjoys reading, traveling, and exploring new cultures, which enriches her perspectives on education and leadership. She also values quality time with friends and family, finding joy in meaningful connections and shared experiences.

With a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of early learning, Courtney continues to make a lasting impact in the field of education, advocating for high-quality early childhood programs that support both educators and young learners.

Hello, my name is Lanitra Smith, and I am known in the Child Development industry as Ms. Nickey. I began my career in 1991 as a substitute teacher in a preschool classroom, not realizing at the time that I was stepping into my true purpose. After just three months, I advanced to a leadership role as third in charge, and from there my passion for early childhood education continued to grow.

I began caring for children in my home and later opened my first child care center as a director and owner in 1994. I went on to successfully operate Nursery Rhymes Child Care Center for 24 years, building a strong foundation in early learning, leadership, and program development. During that time, I also earned my Technical Certificate of Credit (TCC) and continued to grow professionally in the field.

In 2018, I made one of the most difficult decisions of my career and closed my business. I am currently continuing my education and have completed my Bachelor of Science in Business. I am also pursuing further studies in Business Management, with only a few credits remaining in my academic journey.

I bring over 35 years of experience in child care and 24 years as an owner-director. Beyond my professional life, I am a proud mother of one son and a loving grandmother. I enjoy my faith in God, dancing, spending time with family and friends, and watching sports.

Hi Chroma Early Learning Academy Friends,

My name is Shekrelia Davis. I have over twenty years of experience working with children in a childcare facility and owning and operating a home daycare center for six years. I love and enjoy interacting and engaging with children, whether it is through reading, music, laughter, or just being silly. I get complete joy whenever a child laughs; it brightens my day. 

I am a true Georgia Peach. I was born and raised in Decatur, Georgia. So, you know that means I am a diehard Atlanta Falcons, Braves, Hawks, and UGA Bull Dogs fan for life!

I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management and am currently working on obtaining a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education.

I am the mother of two young men who blessed me with seven beautiful grandchildren. I am an active member at my church and work faithfully within the Women’s Ministry (Crowned Jewels).

I am a “Finer” Woman of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Sigma Omicron Gwinnett Chapter. Where we demonstrate a commitment to scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood. 

Jahnel Wilson is a seasoned and dedicated early childhood professional with over 20 years of leadership experience in childcare management.

She holds an associate degree in human services and has served in leadership roles including Assistant Director, Director, and District Manager across multiple locations.

Jahnel has led teams, trained Directors, ensured state compliance, and supported high-quality learning environments. She is passionate about building structured, nurturing settings where children thrive and educators feel empowered.

She values transparent communication, collaboration, positive culture, and consistency, and is committed to maintaining excellence while ensuring children, families, and staff feel supported and valued.

Tameeka Waller is an accomplished early childhood education professional with 26 years of experience in the field. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Development. Her accomplishments include leading early childhood programs, building high-performing teams, and combining strong operational leadership with a child-centered approach. Tameeka oversees program quality, regulatory compliance, staff development, and family engagement across multiple locations. With a strong background in curriculum implementation, classroom management, and professional development, she is committed to creating safe, nurturing, and enriching environments where children, educators, and families can thrive. Her passion for advancing high-quality early learning makes her an invaluable asset to the success of our schools.

Quality Assurance and Compliance

Laura Newman has extensive experience in the early care and education sector. Positions to support her knowledge include a classroom teacher, resource coordinator, director of education, and director of a shared services project for the state of Georgia’s Child Care Resource and Referral agency. Additionally, she was the quality assurance specialist at a child care franchise, and most recently, a senior product development and instructional design associate tasked with creating online training for industry professionals and social service agencies. 

Her passion for supporting those who work tirelessly for families and the staff who care for them was met by voluntarily serving three years as a consulting editor for NAEYC’s award-winning peer-reviewed journal, Young Children. Formerly, a Level II state-approved trainer, Laura designed a successful peer-to-peer cohort model she called, Director to Director which garnered national attention.  Across three regions and every month, program owners and their management teams received her training content with resources aligned to each of the 27 administrative topics. This opportunity to create and then personally deliver advanced-level training matched her ambitious goal to fill the gap in options that support business and leadership needs while creating a space that built camaraderie and a necessary circle of support among hard-working peers.  

Laura lives in Alpharetta with her husband. They have four children and are blessed with several grandchildren. In her free time, she enjoys antiquing, creative jewelry design, interior design, weekends at their lake house, and traveling to the mountains for self-renewal.

Kaitlyn Mayton is happily married and a proud mother of two sons. With 15 years of experience in childcare, she has built strong and meaningful relationships with children, families, and educators throughout her career. She holds a TCC in Early Childhood Education and served as a Director for five years, where she enjoyed leading teams and fostering a nurturing, positive environment where both staff and children could thrive.

Kaitlyn now serves as the CACFP Supervisor, where she supports the success of the food program by helping ensure children receive nutritious meals and that providers are guided and supported every step of the way. Her passion for childcare, leadership experience, and commitment to quality care make her a valuable part of the organization.

Executive Director

Nadine has devoted over 16 years to early childhood education, beginning her journey at just 16 years old.

With an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Development, she brings both expertise and heartfelt passion to her role. Nadine is known for creating nurturing, enriching environments that support both children and staff.

Outside of work, she enjoys life with her husband, teenage son, and energetic toddler daughter. Her blend of personal and professional experience shapes her compassionate, family-centered leadership at Cherokee Academy.

Greetings,

My name is Sonia Atkins. I am so honored to be given the opportunity to be a part of the Chroma Family. I am looking forward to all the fun and adventures; all of the experience and growth here at Chroma of West Cobb. I am having a blast getting to know all of the families and sharing my experiences with them in an effort to continue to enhance the growth of this school as well as to create a space that is nurturing and fun-filled each day.

I was born in Walterboro, South Carolina but my mother and I relocated to a small town in Georgia as a young girl. I am the only child from my mother. From my father, I am the second oldest out of eight. I married my High School Sweetheart a week after I graduated High School and that was 36 years ago. We have four adult sons, four beautiful grand-daughters, and two amazingly handsome grandsons. I enjoy spending as much time as possible with all of them. I love dancing, singing, and watching tv. I get joy from helping others to grow and achieve their goals.

I accepted a summer job position as a classroom monitor at sixteen years old and I never left the childcare field. I have an Associate’s Degree in ECE, a Bachelor’s Degree of science in Management, and as of April 27^th of this year (2025) I will be the proud recipient of a Master’s of Science in Psychology   I have my 40 hours Director Training Certificate, my certificate of Licensure. I am CPR and First Aid certified as well as certified in areas that make the classroom work smoothly and productively. Teaching is/was my passion and I love to see the students get so excited about learning. That is what fuels me to do more. I believe that Whitney Houston said it best in a song that states, “I BELIEVE THE CHILDREN ARE OUR FUTURE, TEACH THEM WELL AND LET THEM LEAD THE WAY. SHOW THEM ALL THE BEAUTY THEY POSSESS INSIDE, GIVE THEM A SENSE OF PRIDE TO MAKE IT EASIER”. As a Director/ Educator that it is my charge; my duty. I want them to learn and play and have a blast at it. They should feel so secure and so motivated that they only see stars because that is the limit…….THE STARS!!!

Teacher Training and Curriculum Coordinator

Keishawn brings 9 years of Early Childhood Education experience, including serving as a Special Needs teacher, teaching both 5th and 8th grade, and working with Head Start. His dedication to fostering the intellectual, social, emotional, linguistic, and physical development of children aligns perfectly with our mission and values at Chroma.

Beyond his professional expertise, Keishawn is married and the proud Godfather to three children. His passion for education, combined with his leadership skills and commitment to families, will be an asset as we grow our South Cobb location.

Controller

With over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry as a Pre-Closing Paralegal and Closing Specialist, I’ve built a strong foundation in transactional processes, attention to detail, and client service. I hold a Master’s Degree in Business Management with a concentration in Human Resources, which has shaped my approach to leadership with both strategic and people-focused insight.

My journey took a meaningful turn when I transitioned into early childhood education, spending a year at Chroma Early Learning Academy. There, I learned the ins and outs of daycare operations at the corporate level, expanding my understanding of business operations in a new and impactful industry.

Currently, I serve as Controller and HR Administrator, where I focus on driving operational efficiency, supporting team development, and building systems that foster company growth. I’m passionate about learning, adapting, and always finding new ways to improve.

I live by a simple motto: “If there is a situation out of your control, all you can do is adapt, adjust, and correct.” It’s a mindset that helps me face challenges head-on, stay grounded, and keep moving forward with purpose.

Morgan Powell is the Lead Billing Specialist at Chroma Early Learning Academy, bringing with her six years of experience in early childhood education. Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of roles including teacher, Assistant Director, and Director, giving her a well-rounded understanding of both classroom dynamics and administrative leadership. A proud native of Cherokee County, Georgia, Morgan values community and family. She is the mother of a lively three-year-old daughter who keeps her inspired and motivated each day. Outside of her professional life, Morgan enjoys expressing her creativity through baking, cooking, and DIY projects. Her passion for hands-on work and attention to detail carry over into her role, where she is dedicated to supporting families and ensuring smooth financial operations at Chroma.

Chellie is a dedicated Human Resources professional supporting multiple daycare centers, with over 15 years of experience in early childhood development. Chellie is skilled in employee relations, compliance, and fostering positive workplace environments. As a proud mother of three children ages 15, 7 and 5, she brings both professional expertise and personal insight into the importance of strong, supportive childcare programs for children, staff, and families.

Advisor and Chief Administrative Officer

Kimberly Williams serves as the Advisor and Chief Administrative Officer of Chroma Early Learning Academy, bringing over 30 years of experience in early childhood education. Throughout her career, she has held diverse roles, including Infant through School-Age Teacher, Assistant Director, Director, Curriculum Coordinator, and Regional Director. Her extensive background has equipped her with a deep understanding of child development, operational excellence, and leadership in the early education field. Beyond her professional expertise, Kimberly is a devoted parent and foster parent to children ranging from 3 to 31 years old. She is also a proud grandparent to five grandchildren. Her passion for nurturing young minds extends beyond the classroom, shaping her dedication to creating high-quality learning environments that support children, families, and educators alike. Under her leadership, Chroma Early Learning Academy continues to thrive, ensuring excellence in early education and fostering a culture of care, growth, and innovation.