Daily editionTuesday, March 31st, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 31st of March.
Education
Protect Your Mind LLC helps Wichita teen boys build life skills through tutoring, culinary arts and mentoring programs that support their transition from juvenile detention.
The non-profit recently received a Helping Hand donation from KWCH and DeVaughn James Injury Lawyers to bolster its ongoing initiatives.
KWCHRead more
Kansas earned an A on the Phone-Free Schools Report Card after Governor Kelly signed HB 2299 on March 19, banning student cell phone use during the school day.
The law requires phones be kept off their persons — not in backpacks or lockers — to limit distractions and promote focus.
KWCHRead more
The Kansas State Board of Education has named three finalists (Lisa Coons, Reginald Eggleston and Jake Steel) for the education commissioner post, and the new commissioner will be announced on April 14.
KMUWRead more
Students at Wichita State can report suspected campaign rule violations on the SGA website ahead of the general election (April 6-8).
The Elections Committee will review these reports and may penalize campaigns by cutting funding, suspending activities, or removing candidates from the ballot.
The SunflowerRead more
Government
The Kansas Legislature passed its fiscal year 2027 budget that cuts Wichita State’s base operations funding by 2.5% and eliminates student success funding while allowing tuition hikes.
WSU officials now expect a 4% tuition increase.
The SunflowerRead more
Monday, Mar. 30 saw a new ramp from westbound K-96 to northbound I-135 open as part of the long-running north junction project— the old ramp closed and a new lane near eastbound K-96 is open despite ongoing repairs on a bridge damaged by a train derailment that may cause delays.
KWCHRead more
Kansas lawmakers approved a bill to allow 23/7 alcohol sales during the summer World Cup, temporarily extending liquor service hours from 2 a.m. to 5 a.m. for bars and stores (June 11 to July 19) as local governments can opt in.
KMUWRead more
Officials announced a burn ban covering 16 Kansas counties that will begin tomorrow, Wednesday, Apr. 1 — residents should check local guidelines before starting any outdoor fires.
KWCHRead more
Sports
Yesterday, the Royals held their home opener against the Minnesota Twins at Kauffman Stadium after starting the season 1-2 in Atlanta.
The game aired on KWCH at 3 p.m. and is one of 10 home games broadcast locally this season.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
Elmo's Got The Moves
Wednesday, April 1st, 2026 · 6-9 p.m. — Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center — Tickets required — Dance and play along with Elmo and his Sesame Street friends in a magical live experience.
That Arena Rock Show
Thursday, April 2nd, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — The Cotillion — $28.14 — Experience a high-energy tribute to classic rock anthems of the 70s and 80s.
Zero 9:36 Live Performance
Friday, April 3rd, 2026 · 6-10 p.m. — WAVE — Ticket prices vary — Experience the high-octane energy of Zero 9:36’s unique sound blending trap-metal and rap-rock.
Easter Sunday Buffet
Sunday, April 5th, 2026 · Apr 5 — Chisholm's American Beef & Ale House — $31 to $50 — Indulge in a festive buffet featuring prime rib, glazed ham, and seasonal delights.
Bored Teachers Comedy Night
Thursday, April 9th, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Crown Uptown Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Bored Teachers as they share their hilarious tales from the classroom.
Kansas City Mavericks vs. Wichita Thunder
Friday, April 10th, 2026 · 7:05-10:05 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Complimentary tickets available — Experience the excitement of this rivalry match with a special ticket promotion.
Aries Spears Comedy Show
Saturday, April 11th, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — The Cotillion — Reserved seating — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Aries Spears, with concessions and full bars available.
KSAPT 2026 Conference Featuring Dr. Eliana Gil
Thursday, April 16th, 2026 · 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Aloft Wichita — Registration required — Explore play-based assessments and the impact of childhood trauma with expert guidance.
Bingo Loco Party
Friday, April 17th, 2026 · 6:00-9:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — $44.27 — Join the ultimate bingo party featuring crazy prizes, hilarious hosts, and a night of dancing and laughter.
Super Saturday: Travel Entrepreneurship Workshop
Saturday, April 18th, 2026 · 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Courtyard by Marriott Wichita at Old Town — Free entry — Discover how to turn your passion for travel into a professional entrepreneurial venture.