Aiko Kojima Hibino has dedicated over two decades to Hyde Park, becoming a tireless advocate for equitable education in Chicago. Aiko's journey as a leader and community organizer began when she encountered the stark inequities in Chicago Public Schools (CPS) while raising her son. Her experiences inspired her to take action and work toward creating a more inclusive and just educational system.

Aiko is a founding member and treasurer of The Friends of Bret Harte, a nonprofit organization that has raised over $50,000 to support the students and families of Bret Harte Elementary School. Under her leadership, the group has addressed critical gaps in resources, such as launching after-school music programs and providing mobile Wi-Fi hotspots to families during the pandemic. Her efforts ensured that every child, regardless of their circumstances, had access to the tools they needed to succeed.

Her advocacy doesn’t stop at Bret Harte. As a board member of Raise Your Hand for Illinois Public Education, Aiko empowers parents across Chicago to engage in meaningful change. She also serves as a community representative on Bret Harte's Local School Council, where she works to amplify the voices of families in decisions that shape their children's futures.

Aiko’s passion stems from her own experiences. As a first-generation immigrant from Japan, she was struck by the inequities in CPS, especially when compared to the standardized and accessible education system she grew up with. Her determination to improve these conditions led her to become a vocal advocate for justice, diversity, and inclusion in schools.

In addition to her advocacy, Aiko is a lecturer at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where she inspires students with her love for teaching and her belief in education as a transformative tool.

Aiko’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact community-driven change can have. Her advice to others is simple yet profound: take the time to check your privilege, even when it feels uncomfortable. Approach others’ experiences with empathy and an open mind, putting yourself in their shoes and truly listening. Structural inequities are real, and it is our shared responsibility to dismantle the barriers they create.

Hyde Park is fortunate to have Aiko Kojima Hibino as a champion for its children and families. Her unwavering commitment to equity and education has made a lasting impact, and her efforts continue to inspire those around her to take action.