Daily editionTuesday, January 13th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 13th of January.
Education
Wichita Public Schools met Monday evening to discuss a new bond proposal to fund facility improvements after a $450 million measure was rejected in 2024.
The district said no schools will close this year, although four will be scheduled for closure later.
KWCHRead more
Government
House Bill 2409 would stop school districts from starting classes before Labor Day for the 2026-27 school year if approved.
The bill allows districts to run summer school programs and teacher training before the holiday.
KWCHRead more
Local officials announced the Safe and Secure Firearm program on Jan. 12 to help residents learn proper firearm storage and handling.
Training sessions are scheduled to begin soon at community centers.
KWCHRead more
Health
A national analysis found that 68 rural hospitals in Kansas are at risk of closing, with 30 facing immediate danger due to rising costs and low revenue.
State officials expect to reveal details soon on the Rural Health Transformation Fund (which allocates $222 million) aimed at sustaining these hospitals.
KMUWRead more
A Kansas nurse’s clerical error in December 2024 led to a lapsed APRN license that halted her career, forcing her to transfer 600+ patients and prompting the Kansas State Board of Nursing to change its renewal process.
KWCHRead more
Kansas has experienced its worst bird flu outbreak in the nation, affecting 413,897 birds in commercial and backyard flocks over the past 30 days — officials advise bird owners to reduce wild waterfowl contact as the disease does not endanger human health.
KWCHRead more
Lifestyle
Phnom Penh Pho is set to bring authentic Cambodian cuisine to Wichita with new signage at the former Saigon Bistro, 3123 E. Pawnee — the restaurant is expected to open within the next month or two, expanding the city's diverse dining scene.
Wichita By E.B.Read more
Sports
Kansas State has hired Sean Gleeson as offensive coordinator, a move announced today that comes after his recent role at Mizzou.
He brings previous experience from coordinator positions at Oklahoma State and Rutgers.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation Commission
Wednesday, January 14th, 2026 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Discover the calming benefits of Chair Yoga in a supportive community setting.
Tahoe Knight Monsters vs Wichita Thunder
Friday, January 16th, 2026 · 7:05-9:05 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Cost info not specified — Catch an exciting hockey match as the Tahoe Knight Monsters face off against the Wichita Thunder.
Concert by Tay Money
Saturday, January 17th, 2026 · 8-10 p.m. — WAVE — Tickets available — Enjoy a live performance by Tay Money featuring her hit song 'Hood Still the Same'.
Time Travel Half-Marathon and 5k/10k
Sunday, January 18th, 2026 · 9 AM – 12 PM — Plum Shelter, 6501 W 21st St N, Wichita, KS — Unique referral code system for refunds — Lace up for a family-friendly dash through time with races for all ages.
Safe Sitter Baby-Sitting Course
Monday, January 19th, 2026 · 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM — Newton Recreation Center — Bring your own lunch — Learn essential babysitting skills in a fun and engaging environment.
East Carolina Pirates vs. Wichita State Shockers Men's Basketball
Wednesday, January 21st, 2026 · 6:30-8:30 p.m. — Charles Koch Arena — Free t-shirt for early fans — Witness a thrilling basketball game while supporting mental health awareness.
Air Capital Hoopfest
Friday, January 23rd, 2026 · 7 p.m. — Newman University-Fugate Gymnasium — $15 for Adults, $8 for Kids, Students, and Seniors — Experience the excitement of top high school basketball with future stars competing for glory.
Chair Yoga at Haysville Senior Center
Monday, January 26th, 2026 · 10:00 – 10:45 a.m. — Haysville Senior Center — Free for members — Experience a gentle yoga practice that enhances strength, balance, and community spirit.
Chair Yoga Class
Wednesday, January 28th, 2026 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 for drop-ins — Experience the benefits of Chair Yoga in a welcoming community atmosphere.
Alternative & Holistic Fair 2026
Friday, January 30th, 2026 · 3-7 p.m. — Wichita Kansas Events - Holiday Inn — $3-$5 entry — Explore growth opportunities and connect with uplifting vendors and lectures.