Wilkes Elementary School has canceled its Meet and Greet event due to ongoing construction at the school.

Officials said the cancellation was necessary because staff and construction crews will be working well into the night to get the new school ready for students on Wednesday morning.

Back to School nights will be held in September; the dates will be announced when the events are set.

School staff said they have heard from parents who are concerned their children will not get to visit their classrooms before the start of school, so adults will be posted around the school to help guide children to their classes.

Students will get a tour of the new school with their class.

The construction effort will also impact other areas of the school’s operations.

The kitchen will not be operational for hot meals, so sack lunches will be the menu option for students buying lunch during the first week of school.

For parents who want to drop off their students, a drop-off loop has been set up in the temporary parking lot off North Madison Avenue.

Drivers should follow the arrows through the parking lot and drop off students near the front of the school. Students can enter the building through the lunch room doors and people will be positioned to help students find their way.

Parking nearby will be limited, but may be available on Madison Avenue or on Day Road east of the intersection.

Because of the challenges with the construction project and access to the school, students will not be marked as “late” this week.

Also, the recess area is small, but will be expanded in upcoming weeks as equipment, basketball hoops and other playground gear is installed.

Due to safety concerns, students must wear closed-toe shoes. Flip-flops, heels and open-toe shoes will not be allowed.