Janurary Updates & Upcoming Community Events

Wichita Collective Impact (WCI) is a community-driven, evidence-based initiative focused on improving educational outcomes and economic prosperity in Wichita’s 67214 ZIP code. Through programming, curriculum development, and capacity-building efforts, WCI aims to increase kindergarten readiness and third-grade reading proficiency -- two foundational pillars of long-term academic success and workforce readiness.

WCI December Quarterly Meeting

Thank you to everyone who attended our December Quarterly Luncheon!

During the meeting, partners and representation from other community organizations joined breakout discussions aligned with our three areas of focus, Kindergarten Readiness, Third Grade Reading, and Community & Family Engagement. Each group explored opportunities for collaboration, identified barriers, and shared visions of what success in these areas could look like. Committee outreach will begin in January 2026.

Please use the form below to indicate your interest:

https://wichitastate.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8067DLEgDsoHiES

WCI Partnerships

Wichita Collective Impact Partnership Update

Wichita Collective Impact has grown to 31 committed partners.

We are also excited to announce our newest partnerships with Learning Lab Wichita and PBS Kansas Cochener‑Garvey Children’s Education & Discovery Center. Their expertise and commitment to early learning will further strengthen our collective efforts in 2026. If you or your organization would like to learn more about becoming a Wichita Collective Impact partner, please use the link below.

https://wichitastate.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8CZX7vNhlyExjKu

Introducing the brand new Wichita Collective Impact Website!

Explore the new Wichita Collective Impact website, built by T3 at Wichita State University in partnership with the Public Policy & Management Center! Visit our website to learn more about how you can get involved and stay informed:

https://wichitacollectiveimpact.org/

Upcoming Community Events

Washington Elementary Family Literacy Night

We are excited to support a partnership between WSU CLEAR & Washington Elementary School to host a Family Literacy Night on January 22nd from 5:30pm-7pm at Washington Elementary School! This event will offer FREE literacy workshops, food, and take-home learning tools to caregivers looking to learn about strategies to support reading at home such as storybook reading and comprehension. Families from all schools are invited! Please share with families in your network!

RSVP Today!

Registration is limited and the deadline to register is January 20th, 2026.

Click the link below to register today!

https://wichitastate.co1.qualtrics.com/.../SV...

Books and Breakfast

Join Community Organizing Recovery Empowerment (CORE) and Build and Rebuild for "Books and Breakfast" this Saturday, January 10th, from 10 AM to 11:30 AM at Build and Rebuild, located at 1751 N Ash. Enjoy free books and breakfast!

Books & Breakfast ICT is a program that promotes community empowerment through cultural enrichment, collaborative community building, and literacy improvement. Books & Breakfast ICT is open every second Saturday from 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM.

*FREE EVENT*

COMCARE ADHD Family Seminar

COMCARE is hosting a family-focused seminar designed to help parents and caregivers better understand ADHD, common symptoms, and practical strategies for support. The session provides clear information, opportunities for questions, and access to helpful resources. Both in‑person and virtual options are available to accommodate family schedules.

RSVP Required

Contact Brandon Kerns

Brandon.Kerns@Sedgwick.gov | (316) 660-9561

Wichita Public Library Education Network

The Wichita Public Library is excited to invite you to the return of our Wichita Education Network meetings! Join us on Tuesday, January 13th, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at The Advanced Learning Library (711 West 2nd St N, Wichita, KS 67203) for an engaging session featuring networking, lunch, and a special presentation by Youth Services Manager, Erin Howerton, on the Family Place Libraries initiative.

This event is perfect for anyone involved in education, including community educators, parent educators, K-12 teachers, adult educators, and educational support professionals. Please share this invitation with your colleagues and help us spread the word!

https://wichitalibrary.libnet.info/event/14885144?registration=true

TBC SMART Future Ready Scholars

Upcoming events facilitated by TBC SMART Learning Center for middle and high school students to equip them with information and skills to graduate high school on time, and begin planning for college or career. Parents are encouraged to participate in workshops and tours!

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfS6i7wKzPY_h0iMRi0BAKiX89FOC9fKvsZp9rEsdBQPs9edA/viewform

For More Information:

Dr. Tiffinie Irving

tiffinieirving@gmail.com

Shocker Community Night

Come out and enjoy a free evening of fun at the WSU Hesket Center on Friday, February 20th hosted by WSU Connect & WSU Campus Recreation. All ages are welcome. Dinner will be provided (Pizza + Drinks)! Engage with community partners at the resource tabling area or enjoy open access to the gym, pool, or E-Sports Hub at NO COST!

Registration:

Table, Volunteer, Attendee

https://wichitastate.co1.qualtrics.com/.../SV...

Campus map:

https://map.concept3d.com/?id=1128#!ce/24624?ct/51577?s/

Parking is free after 5 PM, with closest lots being 5, 10, 19W, or 15.

For More Info:

Naquela Pack: naquela.pack@wichita.edu

John Lee: John.Lee@wichita.edu

Reading is Leading

Join the WSU Mortar Board Honor Society for "Reading is Leading" on February 28th, 2026, from 1 PM to 4 PM in Beggs Ballroom at the WSU Rhatigan Student Center.

This event highlights the importance of reading strategies for parents and teachers who may find it challenging to engage with children during reading time. Enjoy a fun-filled day with small businesses, student organizations, and non-profits featuring games, food, and prizes.

Table Registration:

https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/

For More Information

Nabaa Alamood

nqalamood@shockers.wichita.edu