Palo Alto High School’s annual Change in Our Schools (CIOS) Week  kicked off during the last week of March with each day involving music on the quad, accompanied by activities pertaining to the topic being addressed that day.

The week started with the theme of “Paly is…” with students describing their thoughts on Paly with a couple words. Tuesday had an identity theme with the leading question “Who am I?”

“It’s extremely important not only to recognize issues but to be able to respond in a way that is better for both you and the greater world.”

Anmol Nagar, ASB President

Paly’s own Korean Pop (K-POP) dance group performed a choreographed dance on the senior deck, and there were several other club performances throughout the week.

Wednesday’s theme was “How do we treat each other,” Thursday was “What are my Sources of Strength?” and Friday with “How do I care for myself.”

This year, Associated Student Body (ASB) changed the name of Not in Our School’s Week to Change In Our Schools Week. The name change was created to portray positivity and address important questions. In the past, CIOS worked to dispel terms associated with racism, sexism and LGBTQ issues.

“It’s extremely important not only to recognize issues but to be able to respond in a way that is better for both you and the greater world,” ASB  President Anmol Nagar said. “During CIOS, we address questions like ‘who are we as Paly,’ ‘What is my identity,’ ‘How do I treat others,’ ‘What are my sources of strength?’ And ‘how do I care for myself?’ ”

CIOS has not only created a positive vibe around campus, but it has also impacted students.

“The activities and performances that have taken place during lunch really helped bring the school togeher, which I think makes the week sucessful because one of the [CIOS] goals is unity,” said senior Cassandra Fong.