The corridors of the International School of Lausanne (ISL) are buzzing with chatter this week after a mysterious theft from a classroom on the South Campus. At some point during Monday 3 June, a stack of lined paper (around 20 pages) vanished from a desk, sparking an investigation that has the entire student body on edge.
While the missing paper itself might not seem significant, this incident is the latest in a string of petty thefts that have plagued our school over the years. From paper clips to felt tip pens and pencil sharpeners, it seems no small item is safe from the elusive thief.
“I couldn’t believe it when I heard,” said one teacher, who prefers to remain unnamed. “It’s just lined paper, but it’s the principle of the thing. We’ve had staplers and even erasers go missing in the past, but this is a first.”
The school’s history with petty theft dates back several years. Teachers have reported missing items ranging from basic stationery to personal belongings. The thefts have been sporadic, making it difficult to pinpoint when and where the thief might strike next. Last year, a favourite red felt tip pen of Mr. Kirby, an English teacher, went missing during a break between classes. Similarly, Mr. Nobs, the art teacher, reported a box of colourful markers disappearing mysteriously.

Witness statements have been scarce and inconsistent. One student from Y10 recalled seeing a shadowy figure near the art room on the day Mr. Nobs’ markers disappeared, but could not provide a clear description. Another student mentioned seeing someone lingering around the supply closet, but the identity of the individual remains unknown.
“I saw someone lurking near the teacher’s desk when everyone was outside for recess,” said a junior student. “I didn’t think much of it at the time, but now it seems suspicious.”
The administration has taken the matter very seriously, launching a thorough investigation into the theft. With the frequency of these incidents on the rise, there’s growing concern about what might be next.
“This isn’t just about a few sheets of paper,” said another teacher. “We need to ensure that our school environment is one where everyone feels their belongings are secure, no matter how small.”
In response to the theft, ISL is considering several measures to enhance security, including the installation of CCTV cameras in all classrooms. The idea is met with mixed reactions among the faculty and students.
“It’s a bit extreme, but if it helps catch the culprit and prevent future thefts, it might be worth it,” commented a concerned student. “I just hope it doesn’t make the classrooms feel like a prison.”
However, some teachers argue that the installation of CCTV might be necessary to maintain a sense of security and deter further incidents. “We’ve reached a point where we have to consider all options,” one teacher said. “It’s unfortunate, but the peace of mind it could provide might be invaluable.”
Potential suspects have ranged from mischievous students to outsiders sneaking into the school. One theory suggests that it could be a disgruntled student or former student with a grudge against the school or certain teachers. Another theory is that the thefts might be the work of a kleptomaniac, someone who steals out of a compulsion rather than need or malice.

“I’ve seen some strange things over my years here,” said a veteran teacher. “But this string of thefts is particularly baffling. We’re all hoping that the administration’s efforts will finally put an end to this.”
As the investigation continues, the administration urges anyone with information about the theft to come forward. In the meantime, teachers and students alike are being extra vigilant with their belongings.
“Theft of any kind is disruptive to our learning environment,” a teacher stated in a recent announcement. “We are committed to resolving this issue swiftly and ensuring that ISL remains a safe and respectful place for everyone.”
The ISL community remains hopeful that the culprit will be found and that this will mark the end of the petty thefts that have been a quiet but persistent nuisance. For now, the mystery of the missing lined paper continues to unfold, keeping everyone on their toes.

As the investigation ramps up, speculation and theories abound among the students. Some believe it could be an elaborate prank, while others suspect a new student looking to make a name for themselves. Regardless of the motive, the school is determined to solve the mystery and restore a sense of security and trust within its walls.
“We need to work together to keep our school safe,” said a Y12 student. “Whether it’s reporting suspicious behaviour or simply being more mindful of our belongings, everyone has a part to play.”
With the administration’s commitment and the community’s vigilance, there is hope that the thief will soon be caught and that ISL can return to its usual, theft-free routine.