Big Stature, Big Heart. LA Says Farewell to Mike Carroll

MIKE CARROLL RETIRES

Mike Carroll enjoying retirement

by Caitlin O’Brien

Known affectionately as “Big Mike” at Lawrence Academy, Michael Carroll began working at LA in 2013, and the school community quickly learned to not be intimidated by his tall stature. An integral part of the buildings and grounds team, Mike always made sure the campus was looking its best. His duties included regular housekeeping in several dorms — including Elm Tree, Spaulding Hall, and Pillsbury House — and helping with the daily mail. During the winter, he also drove the Zamboni, assisted with general Grant Rink maintenance, and sharpened skates for Spartan ice hockey players.

Described as an “all-around good guy” by his colleagues, Mike was a prankster at heart. He had a reputation for surprising people when they least expected it, sharing stories about his grandkids, and starting every day with a coffee from Dunkin’ and a scratch-off lottery ticket.

Lawrence Academy will miss you, Mike!

B&G AT LA

Our hard-working buildings and grounds team is busy year-round taking care of LA’s 140 acres and 15 buildings. Here are some highlights into their never-ending to-do list, season by season:

Winter Plow, salt, and sand all roadways and lots. Shovel the walkways and stairwells the campus buildings. Maintain the rink, drive the Zamboni, and sharpen skates.

Spring Humanely remove bats, bees, wasps, and other critters. (Pro-tip: try a butterfly net and a piece of cardboard to re-home bats!) Prune and care for trees and plants around campus.

Summer Clean out, prep, and paint all nine dorms, getting ready for the next year’s students. Facilitate on-campus faculty moves. Mow and weed whack 40 acres worth of grassy areas on campus.

Fall Clear and maintain the cross country trails and line all sports fields. Set up, break down, and provide parking detail for all on-campus events.