Dear Bates Community,
It is with a mix of deep gratitude and bittersweet hearts that we announce the retirement of our beloved Head Custodian, Mr. Bob Hurley, effective July 2026. Mr. Hurley has dedicated 33 years to the Wellesley Public Schools, including tenures at Wellesley High School and Schofield before bringing his incredible talents to Bates.
During his seven years with us, our school has never been in better, more capable hands. Mr. Hurley has cared for our building’s every need with unmatched dedication. Deeply knowledgeable about all aspects of our facility, he has a rare gift for anticipating what we need before we even ask. Whenever an issue does arise, he responds immediately, consistently going above and beyond to ensure our environment is clean, safe, and functioning perfectly. We have always been able to trust that Mr. Hurley is taking the very best care of us.
Beyond his exceptional work ethic, Mr. Hurley is a highly skilled, trained carpenter. His beautiful handiwork is on display all around us, from our library shelves to the recently remodeled faculty lunchroom. He is a master of his craft who is constantly working, strategizing for future projects, and finding ways to improve our space.
Most of all, it is Mr. Hurley’s warmth that has truly shaped our school culture. He made it a point to get to know every single staff member, always greeting us by name and responding to individual needs with care. Just as importantly, he brings so much joy to our students, always greeting them with a smile, an encouraging word, or a joke in the hallways.
While we are incredibly sad to see him go, we are thrilled for him as he begins this next chapter. Please join all of us in thanking Mr. Hurley for his decades of service and wishing him a wonderful, well-deserved retirement!
With gratitude,
Toni Jolley
