Netflix has greenlit a new animated preschool series that will be co-produced by Chris Nee and the Obamas’ Higher Ground Productions. Ada Twist, Scientist is based on the best-selling book series by author Andrea Beaty and illustrator David Roberts.

The 40 x 12-minute show will debut globally, starting in 2021. Kerri Grant (Doc McStuffins, Nella the Princess Knight) is tapped as showrunner for the project, which will be co-produced with Wonder Worldwide (The Christmas Chronicles). The series introduces a young Black scientist who helps people through scientific discovery, collaboration and friendship.

Nee developed Ada Twist, Scientist and will serve as executive producer. Mark Burton, Tonia Davis, Priya Swaminathan, Andrea Beaty and David Roberts are also attached as EPs.

This is the first project to be announced under the overall deal Netflix signed with Nee and her production company Laughing Wild in 2018. Under the terms of the multi-year agreement, Nee has been writing and producing new animated and live-action series exclusively for the SVOD.

Similarly, Barack and Michelle Obama signed a deal in 2019 with Netflix to create several shows under their shingle Higher Ground. So far, the studio has released American Factory, Crip Camp and Becoming on the platform.