The Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking is proud to announce that it received the Outstanding Education Program Award at the recent Georgia Association of Museums conference. The honor recognizes the Museum’s innovative new initiative, “Paper Science Mystery,” launched in spring 2025.

Developed to bring immersive, hands‑on STEM learning to school audiences, Paper Science Mystery introduces a dynamic, mystery‑driven approach to science education using the familiar medium of paper. The program features eight fully scripted modules—four designed for 4th and 5th graders and four for 7th and 8th graders—aligned with the Georgia Standards of Excellence. Students engage as investigators, analyzing paper‑based evidence to solve fictional crimes, while building critical thinking, creativity, and problem‑solving skills.

Intentionally priced to ensure broad accessibility, the program quickly gained momentum among public, private, and homeschool groups, establishing itself as a cornerstone of the Museum’s educational outreach. The program was designed by Education Curator Anna Doll. 

“We created Paper Science Mystery to show students that science is not only accessible—it’s exciting, creative, and all around them,” said Virginia Howell, Director of the Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking. “We are deeply honored by this recognition. It reaffirms our belief in the power of hands‑on learning and encourages us to keep innovating to serve Georgia’s students and teachers.”

“Watching students light up as they piece together clues has been incredible,” said Anna Doll, Education Curator. “This program gives learners the thrill of discovery while helping them understand real scientific processes. Seeing its impact on the students is incredibly rewarding.”

Through its blend of storytelling, scientific inquiry, and hands‑on exploration, Paper Science Mystery inspires curiosity and confidence in young learners. The Museum’s ultimate goal is to empower the next generation of scientific thinkers and leaders to approach challenges with ingenuity and a sense of wonder.

For more information about the program, visit https://paper.gatech.edu/k-12-person-paper-science-mystery .