Boy Scouts of America Troop 234 Moraga, California

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1 Boy Scouts of America Troop 234 Moraga, California TROOP POLICIES The Troop 234 Committee has adopted these Troop Policies to govern the operation of Troop 234. It is important that all Scouts and their parents read and become familiar with them. Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQ ) General Policies Guiding Philosophy of Leadership and Structure Duty to God Troop Activities Standards of Conduct Scout Discipline Uniforms and Clothing Transportation Drivers and Insurance Two Deep Leadership and Youth Safety Food Safety Attendance and Participation Standards All Scouts Scout Troop and Patrol Leaders Administration Advancement Rank Advancement Requirements Optional Timing Guide Leadership Scoutmaster Conferences Boards of Review Parents' Responsibilities Parental Support and Participation Parents Promise Merit Badge Counselors Adult Leadership Troop Committee Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters Appendix I Troop 234 Food Safety Policy Appendix II Troop 234 Scout Positions of Leadership Appendix III Parents Promise Adopted: June 2007 Last Revised: November

2 How is Troop 234 Organized? FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ( FAQ ) Troop 234 is a boy led Scout troop that is organized according to the Boy Scouts of America ( BSA ) Patrol System. See General Policies -- Guiding Philosophy of Leadership and Structure. What are Troop 234 s Scout attendance and participation policies? In general, Scouts are encouraged to attend and participate in all Troop Activities. However, to maintain continued membership in the Troop, Scouts must attend and participate in: Each Camporee and Pre-Camporee (absences only excused by the Scoutmaster in advance) At least two thirds (2/3) of all Troop and Patrol meetings (measured over the immediately preceding twelve (12) months), and Six (6) other outdoor Troop Activities, i.e., campouts, hikes, car washes and Camp Royaneh (measured December 1 to November 30):. Additionally, each Scout should perform ten (10) hours of services projects every twelve (12) months and must sell a minimum of ten (10) tickets to each of the two (2) Troop carwash fundraisers. The Senior Patrol Leader and each Patrol Leader or his respective designee must attend all Troop meetings while serving in such leadership positions (any excused absences must be arranged in advance with the Scoutmaster or the Committee). Failure of a Senior Patrol Leader or a Patrol Leader or his respective designee to attend during the Leader s term (excluding the excused absences described above) may result in the Scout not receiving credit for the position of responsibility for rank advancement purposes. By accepting the Patrol Leader or staff position, the Scout automatically commits to this level of attendance and participation. See Attendance and Participation Standards. What are Troop 234 s parent support and participation policies? For a Scout to maintain continued membership in the Troop, that Scout s parent(s)/adult must select and fulfill at least four (4) commitments listed in the Parents Promise form. All Scout parents/adult also must be available to drive Scouts in addition to their own sons to and from Troop Activities. See Appendix III, Parents Promise and General Policies Transportation Drivers and Insurance. 2

3 What are Troop 234 s standards of conduct for Scouts and their parents? All Scouts will at all times, to the best of their ability, live by and exemplify the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. Scouts will obey Troop rules, show respect to adults and Troop leaders, and be courteous to leaders and each other. Adults who participate with their son should follow the Scout Oath and the Scout Law as well. This includes adults exercising common sense and good judgment at all times during Troop Activities so that all aspects of Troop Activities are appropriate for all Scouts. While participating in Troop Activities, all persons, including parents, will: Refrain from the consumption of any alcoholic beverages or illegal substances; Refrain from the use of any profanities or abusive language; Refrain from administration of corporal punishment; discipline of Scouts should be referred to uniformed leaders; Respect the boy led principles of the Troop; i.e., the "chain of command" that runs Activity Leader - to boy Scout leader - to Scouts; and Accept and be subject to the leadership authority of the Activity Leader. See General Policies Troop Activities and General Policies Standards of Conduct. What are Troop 234 s required uniforms and when must they be worn? For Troop 234, a full Scout uniform ( Class A ) consists of official BSA Scout pants or shorts (shorts, however, must be worn with official BSA socks), official BSA Scout shirt complete with all required patches and red epaulets, Troop neckerchief and slide, an official BSA Scout and closed-toe shoes. For Scoutmaster Conferences. Boards of Review and Courts of Honor, an official BSA Scout sash, if owned, is required. For Troop 234, a Class B uniform consists of a Troop 234 T-shirt and reasonably neat and presentable other attire. Unless otherwise expressly advised by the Scoutmaster or the Committee, Scouts must wear Class A uniforms at all Troop Activities except that Class B uniforms generally may be worn at outdoor Troop Activities such as hikes, campouts (including most times at Camp Royaneh) and service projects. See General Policies Troop Activities and General Policies Uniforms and Clothing. 3

4 GENERAL POLICIES Guiding Philosophy of Leadership and Structure Our guiding philosophy and organizational structure are that the Troop 234 is a boy led Scout Troop that is organized according to the BSA Patrol System. Boy led Troop By boy led, the Troop means that the boy Scouts themselves are encouraged to assume as much responsibility for running the Troop as is reasonably possible and that the Troop s adult leadership (Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmasters and Troop Committee) primarily provide appropriate training and guidance to all of the Scouts. Patrol System The Patrol System, the organizational structure that is fundamental to BSA, gives numerous Scouts the opportunity to take on leadership positions for Scout rank advancement and for the purposes of gaining the experience of playing a leadership role, first at the Patrol level and subsequently at the Troop level. Under the Patrol System, the Troop s Scouts are divided in to sub-units called Patrols. Each Patrol is made up of Scouts of varying ages and abilities. Older Scouts who have undergone leadership training are elected by their peers to be Patrol Leaders and direct the younger/lessexperienced Scouts. Patrols are intended to be very much like small Troops within the larger Troop. Each Patrol has leadership roles, responsibilities and younger members to train. Patrol Leaders learn their leadership skills at BSA National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) programs, Troop 234 s own leadership training programs and other Scouting events. Patrol Leaders put their leadership skills into practice by planning and participating in Troop outings. Not surprisingly, the Patrol System works best if all of the Patrols are represented at Troop Activities and if all members of the Patrol actively participate. Accordingly, a fundamental policy, goal and expectation of Troop 234 is that all Scouts participate actively and vigorously in their Patrols at all Troop Activities. Duty to God 1 Scouting maintains that no Scout can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God. In the first part of the Scout Oath or Promise, the member declares, "On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law." A Scout may fulfill this duty without being a member of a particular denomination or religion. 1 Both the BSA and Troop 234 recognize that some religions that do not use the name God for their supreme being or higher power. Neither the BSA nor Troop 234 defines God for a Scout, nor do they interpret God s rules. Those are matters, as said above, left to home and to the religious body to which the Scout belongs. In training its members, Troop 234 merely seeks to determine whether the Scout has fulfilled his duty in a way he sees fit. Troop 234 is absolutely nonsectarian in its attitude toward that religious training. 4

5 Definitions For purposes of these Troop Policies: GENERAL POLICIES Troop Activities "Troop Activity" means any activity sponsored by the Troop, including Troop and Patrol meetings, service projects, campouts and other outdoor activities such hiking, cycling, skiing, water skiing, orienteering and canoeing. "Participation" means from the time one leaves home until one returns to one's home and includes but is not limited to driving and any other form of involvement in Troop Activities such meals, recreational activities and lodging. "Activity Leader" means the adult who has been placed in charge of the Troop Activity by the Committee. Troop Activities Policies Scouts are encouraged to attend all Troop Activities. Scouts may not bring to Troop Activities, including campouts or summer camp, any gear not specifically authorized by the Scoutmaster, the Troop leaders or the Committee. Radios, tape recorders, mp3 players, video game players and similar devices, and personal stoves specifically are not authorized. Profanity or abusive language is not permitted. Scouts are not permitted at any time to have tobacco or tobacco-related paraphernalia, including lighters, in their possession. No person (Scout or adult) is permitted to bring to, or consume any alcoholic beverages or illegal substances at or in connection with, any Troop Activity or any other function sponsored by the Troop. Scouts should be punctual at all times. Thus, Scouts should arrive at regular Troop and Patrol meetings at 7:25 p.m. in order that the meeting may start promptly at 7:30 p.m. Meetings will designed to end promptly at 8:30 p.m. Unless otherwise expressly advised by the Scoutmaster, Troop leaders or the Committee, Scouts must wear Class A uniforms at all Troop (except Patrol meetings) except that Class B uniforms generally may be worn at outdoor Troop Activities such as hikes, campouts (including most times at Camp Royaneh) and service projects. Scouts shall not have any prescription medicines in their possession unless the Scoutmaster or Activity Leader is so advised in advance in writing and given written instructions regarding proper administration of the prescription medicine. However, none of the Troop, the Scoutmaster, the Committee or the Activity Leader has any responsibility with respect to, and the Scout and his parents shall have sole responsibility for, the Scout s adherence to the proper administration of such prescription medicine. At no time will Scouts play with matches or fire, nor will they have any fire or burning material in or near a tent. 5

6 GENERAL POLICIES Responsibility for Troop Equipment The Troop owns equipment needed for various Troop outdoor activities, i.e., camp stoves, backpacking stoves, Dutch ovens, lanterns, etc. The equipment will be signed out to the Patrol Leader or the Activity Leader or their designee by the Troop Quartermaster prior to a campout and turned in immediately upon returning from an outing. Food for Campout / Trek Troop Activities Most campouts require the campout/trek participants to prepare food as a group. Food purchase and cost sharing will be administered by the Patrol Leader/Trek Activity Leader for each Patrol. One Patrol/Trek member from each Patrol should be selected to purchase the food and supplies required. The total cost of the Troop Activity should be estimated and paid in advance, with a final accounting distributed to all of the Troop Activity participants, i.e., over-collection of more than $5.00 per participant will be reimbursed while any over-collection of $5.00 or less per participant will be delivered to the Troop Treasurer for the benefit of the Troop. Food selections must take into consideration Troop 234 s Food Safety Policy, recognizing life-threatening allergies, especially for allergies for nuts and nut products. (See General Policies -- Food Safety. ) Standards of Conduct Purpose The purpose of these policies is to ensure a common understanding of the Troop s expectations of all Scouts and adults who participate in Troop Activities. General Conduct and Deportment Standards All Scouts will at all times, to the best of their ability, live by and exemplify the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. Scouts must obey Troop rules, show respect to adults and Troop leaders, and to be courteous to leaders and each other. Adults who participate with their son should follow the Scout Oath and the Scout Law as well. This includes adults exercising common sense and good judgment at all times during Troop Activities so that all aspects of their involvement are appropriate for all Scouts, and not just their son or themselves. Specific Standards While participating in Troop Activities, all persons will: Refrain from the consumption of any alcoholic beverages or illegal substances at all times during the Troop Activity, including during meals and even if not in the company of Scouts; Refrain from the use of any profanities or abusive language; Refrain from administration of corporal punishment; discipline of Scouts should be referred to uniformed leaders; Respect the boy led principles of the Troop; i.e., the "chain of command" that runs Activity Leader - to boy Scout leader - to Scouts; and Accept and be subject to the leadership authority of the Activity Leader(s). 6

7 GENERAL POLICIES Whenever an adult and a Scout participate in a Troop Activity, the adult must recognize that both he/she and his/her son are under the leadership of the Activity Leader. Adults must recognize that he/she is not on an activity solely with his/her son and some other boys, but, for purposes of the Troop Activity, must view his/her son as a part of the group under the direction of the Activity Leader(s), not the adult. Acceptance Required If a person, Scout or adult, cannot accept and abide by the above standards, such person should not participate in Troop Activities. Discipline Experience has shown that at most activities serious behavioral / discipline problems are rare. Reminding a Scout to follow the Scout Oath and Scout Law is sufficient in most cases. Other than asking a Scout to take a "time out" to compose himself, adult Troop Activity leaders will not take active discipline measures against any Scout in the Troop unless in the sole judgment of the Troop Activity leader(s) failure so to do would put the Scout or others at risk of safety. Instead, adult Troop Activity leaders will simply ask the Scout who is failing to meet the Troop s Standards of Conduct during any Troop Activity, including Troop or Patrol meeting or campout, to stop participating in the Troop Activity until the Scout is ready to meet such Standards. If the Activity Leader feels the Scout s behavior warrants the Scout s removal from the Troop Activity, the Troop Activity leader will contact the Scout s parents and inform them that they must come and retrieve their son. In the rare case of a Scout s serious failure to meet the Troop s Standards of Conduct, the Troop will discipline the Scout according to the following procedures: If a Scout fails to meet the Troop s Standards of Conduct, the Scoutmaster, together with a Committee department leader or Assistant Scoutmaster, will counsel the Scout regarding his behavior and will inform the Scout and the Scout parents that the Scout is having behavior difficulties and will not be permitted to participate in Troop Activities unless the Scout meets the Troop s Standards of Conduct (the foregoing, the First Warning ). If thereafter the Scout fails to meet the Troop s Standards of Conduct, the Scoutmaster will call a Scout/parent/Scoutmaster meeting upon reasonable notice, which the Scout and the Scout s parent(s) must attend, in which the Scoutmaster again expressly will counsel the Scout and the Scout s parent(s) about the Scout s behavioral problems and give the Scout and parents a final warning and a choice: Either the Scout immediately meets the Troop s Standards of Conduct or leave the Troop (the foregoing the Second and Final Warning ). If thereafter the Scout fails to meet the Troop s Standards of Conduct, the Scout will be removed from the Troop s rolls and will not be permitted to participate in any further Troop Activities. The Scoutmaster and the Committee Chair, acting by agreement, shall be the sole arbiters as whether or not the Scout s behavior meets the Troop s Standards of Conduct. 7

8 GENERAL POLICIES In the even rarer case of an adult s serious failure to meet the Troop s Standards of Conduct, the adult will be required to meet with the Committee Chair and Chartering Organization s representative who will counsel the adult regarding his or her behavior and will inform the adult will not be permitted to participate in Troop Activities unless the adult meets the Troop s Standards of Conduct Uniforms and Clothing For Troop 234, a full Scout uniform ( Class A ) consists of official BSA Scout pants or shorts (shorts, however, must be worn with official BSA socks), official BSA Scout shirt complete with all required patches and red epaulets, Scout neckerchief and slide, an official BSA Scout belt and closed-toed shoes. For Scoutmaster Conferences. Boards of Review and Courts of Honor, an official BSA Scout sash, if owned, is required. For Troop 234, a Class B uniform consists of a Troop 234 T-shirt and reasonably neat and presentable other attire. Unless otherwise expressly advised by the Scoutmaster or the Committee, Scouts must wear Class A uniforms at all Troop Activities except that Class B uniforms generally may be worn at outdoor Troop Activities such as hikes, campouts (including most times at Camp Royaneh) and service projects. All Scout families are encouraged to donate any items outgrown to the Quartermaster for use and help of future Scouts. The availability of items depends on the donations received and varies from time to time, but the Troop also supports families in need. Transportation -- Drivers and Insurance Basic Parent Responsibility It is the basic responsibility of all Scout parents to be available to drive Scouts in addition to their own sons to and from Troop Activities. Insurance Coverage Whenever a person undertakes to transport members of the Troop in connection with a Troop activity, that person accepts substantial risk of personal liability which may be imposed on the driver and/or the owner of the vehicle. These policies, if followed, should significantly reduce that risk and assure that insurance coverage at the individual level is coordinated with the umbrella coverage provided by the National Council of BSA. Persons providing transport should have the following insurance coverage: The higher of (i) the minimum amounts required by the state in which the vehicle is registered, and (ii) $100,000/$300,000 public liability and $50,000 property damage, and any vehicle designed to carry ten (10) or more passengers is required to have limits of at least $100,000/$500,000 public liability and $100,000 property damage. 8

9 GENERAL POLICIES Minimum Standards for Drivers In each instance of transporting members of the Troop in connection with any authorized Troop Activity: Seat belts are required for each vehicle occupant An adult leader (at least 21 years of age and awake at all times) must be in charge and accompany the group All driving, except short trips, should be done in daylight The driver of any vehicle shall: o Be at least eighteen (18) years of age, shall hold a valid California or other U.S. state Vehicle Operator's License that has not been revoked or suspended for any reason (if the vehicle to be used is designed to carry more than 15 persons, including the driver (more than 10 persons, including the driver, in California), the driver shall hold a commercial driver's license (CDL)) o Not consume any alcoholic beverage or be in any impaired condition for at least eight (8) hours prior to the providing of transport. In accordance with the Troop Activities policies, no alcoholic beverage or substance causing an impaired condition of any kind shall be consumed during the Troop Activity, including but not limited to the course of transport o Not exceed the applicable speed limit o Not travel in convoy o Not drive longer than a maximum of ten (10) hours and must interrupt driving time for frequent rest, food and recreation stops (and if the only drive, driving time should be reduced and stops should be made more frequently) Passengers in trucks must ride in the cab, and passengers in station wagons must not ride on the rear deck of the station wagon Scouts as Drivers A Scout may not drive a vehicle to or from a Troop Activity; provided, however, that subject to compliance with applicable laws, a Scout may drive solely himself to and from: Regular Troop meetings at St. Monica s Church Patrol meeting at a Patrol Leader s home; or Patrol Leaders Council meeting at the site designated by the Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster in charge of the PLC. The Troop expressly disclaims any liabilities or responsibilities in connection with any Scout driving under any and all circumstances, and the Scout and the Scout s parent(s) / guardian(s) shall be solely responsible with respect to any driving by the Scout. Two Deep Leadership and Youth Safety At all Troop Activities, the Troop requires a minimum of two adults to attend, at least one of which must be a registered adult leader. At no time and under no circumstance will there be less 9

10 GENERAL POLICIES than two adults in any Troop Activity. If only two adults are present and one has an emergency requiring his departure, the Troop Activity must be terminated promptly. For the protection of both the Scout and the adult, the Troop s policy is that at no time should any Scout be alone with any adult, except for a parent with his or her son except for transportation to or from a Troop Activity (other than a Troop, Patrol or PLC meeting) if otherwise previously arranged by the Scout s parents and with advance notice to the Activity Leader, the Scoutmaster or the Committee by the Scout s parent (except that Scouts and their parent(s) or guardian(s), by mutual consent, may establish regular car pools for a Troop, Patrol or PLC meeting). Also, it is the Troop s policy that all adults working with Scouts always should insure that at least a minimum of three (3) individuals are present. In addition, the Troop also subscribes to the following BSA general policies to provide additional security for youth and adult members: Two-deep leadership. Two registered adult leaders or one registered leader and a parent of a participant, one of whom must be 21 years of age or older, are required on all trips and outings. The chartered organization is responsible for ensuring that sufficient leadership is provided for all activities. No one-on-one contact. One-on-one contact between adults and youth members is not permitted. In situations that require personal conferences, such as a Scoutmaster's conference, the meeting is to be conducted in view of other adults and youths. Respect of privacy. Adult leaders must respect the privacy of youth members in situations such as changing clothes and taking showers at camp, and intrude only to the extent that health and safety require. Adults must protect their own privacy in similar situations. Separate accommodations. When camping, no youth is permitted to sleep in the tent of an adult other than his own parent or guardian. Councils are strongly encouraged to have separate shower and latrine facilities for females. When separate facilities are not available, separate times for male and female use should be scheduled and posted for showers. Proper preparation for high-adventure activities. Activities with elements of risk should never be undertaken without proper preparation, equipment, clothing, supervision, and safety measures. No secret organizations. The Boy Scouts of America does not recognize any secret organizations as part of its program. All aspects of the Scouting program are open to observation by parents and leaders. Appropriate attire. Proper clothing for activities is required. For example, skinny-dipping is not appropriate as part of Scouting. Constructive discipline. Discipline used in Scouting should be constructive and reflect Scouting's values. Corporal punishment is never permitted. 10

11 GENERAL POLICIES Hazing prohibited. Physical hazing and initiations are prohibited and may not be included as part of any Scouting activity. Junior leader training and supervision. Adult leaders must monitor and guide the leadership techniques used by junior leaders and ensure that BSA policies are followed. In addition, Troop 234 subscribes to the following BSA policies for Troop Activities that involve trips or outings: Two-deep leadership: Two registered adult leaders, or one registered leader and a parent of a participating Scout or other adult, one of whom must be at least 21 years of age or older, are required for all trips or outings. There are a few instances, such as patrol activities, when no adult leadership is required. Coed overnight activities require male and female adult leaders, both of whom must be 21 years of age or older, and one of whom must be a registered member of the BSA. During transportation to and from planned Scout outings, o Meet for departure at a designated area. o Prearrange a schedule for periodic checkpoint stops as a group. o Plan a daily destination point. A common departure site and a daily destination point are a must. If you cannot provide two adults for each vehicle, the minimum required is one adult and two or more youth members never one on one. Safety rules for expeditions or campouts: o No fewer than four individuals (always with the minimum of two adults) go on any backcountry expedition or campout. o If an accident occurs, one person stays with the injured, and two go for help. o Additional adult leadership requirements must reflect an awareness of such factors as size and skill level of the group, anticipated environmental conditions, and overall degree of challenge. Sleeping, showering and restroom facilities: o Male and female leaders must have separate sleeping facilities. Married couples may share the same quarters if appropriate facilities are available. o Male and female youth participants will not share the same sleeping facility. o Single-room or dormitory-type accommodations for Scouting units: Adults and youth of the same gender may occupy dormitory or single-room accommodations, provided there is a minimum of two adults and four youth. A minimum of one of the adults is required to be youth-protection trained. Adults must establish separation barriers or privacy zones such as a temporary blanket or sheet walls in order to keep their sleeping area and dressing area separated from the youth area. o When staying in tents, no youth will stay in the tent of an adult other than his or her parent or guardian. 11

12 GENERAL POLICIES o If separate shower and latrine facilities are not available, separate times for male and female use should be scheduled and posted for showers. o The buddy system should be used for latrines by having one person wait outside the entrance, or provide Occupied and Unoccupied signs and/or inside door latches. o Adult leaders need to respect the privacy of youth members in situations where the youth are changing clothes or taking showers, and intrude only to the extent that health and safety require. o Adults also need to protect their own privacy in similar situations. Two-deep adult leadership required for flying activities. For basic orientation flights, the adult licensed pilot in control of the aircraft is sufficient for the flight, while two-deep leadership is maintained on the ground. Food Safety Troop 234 is committed to providing the best Scout experience for all who wish to join the Troop. The Troop practices a policy of inclusion and will strive to accommodate the special needs of our Scouts. From time to time, one or more Scouts in our Troop has a life-threatening allergy (anaphylaxis) to peanuts, other nuts or other food products, even food products contaminated with even trace amount of peanuts or other nuts (including peanut oil). Some other Scouts also may be similarly allergic to dairy, eggs and fish. Although some of these Scouts allergies may not be considered life threatening, some Scouts still may become violently ill or swell excessively with hives upon exposure to these food products. See FAQ Sheet in the Food Safety Policy. The Committee has adopted a Troop Food Safety Policy in the form of Appendix I to these Troop Policies so that each Scout has every opportunity to have a complete and safe Boy Scout experience. Because of the potential serious health consequences of allergic reactions, every Scout and his parents should carefully review and thoroughly understand the Food Safety Policy. To summarize, the Food Safety Policy states that the first line of defense is to eliminate all potentially offending food products from any Troop Activities. All Scouts and parents must carefully inspect all food that they plan to take to a Troop Activity and eliminate all food products that may contain or be contaminated by peanuts or any tree nuts. (These products appear to present the most serious danger to the most Scouts. Other food products will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.) In the unlikely event that a Scout is exposed to a harmful food product and goes into anaphylaxis, the Scout and the Scout s parents should ensure that the Scout have modern medicine with him with a second line of defense and should indicate the need in the Scout s permission / medical consent form for each Troop Activity requiring such form. However, the Troop prefers that the Scout adopt a back-up plan to assure that Scout gets the medication in the event that he needs it. A buddy, equipped with back-up modern medicine, should accompany the allergic Scout whenever he is on a Troop Activity. The Scout and his parents (and not the Troop, the Scoutmaster or the Activity Leader) are solely responsible for these arrangements and for notifying the Troop in writing of the existence of the Scout s allergy(ies). 12

13 GENERAL POLICIES Further, because allergic Scouts can be affected merely by being touched by someone who has consumed a potentially harmful food product, the Troop requires that all Scouts (and adults, too) on outings wash their hands after as well as before every meal. Not only will this action help to assure that allergic Scouts not inadvertently exposed to harmful food products, but it means that each Scout will actually wash their hands not less than six (6) times per day. After all, the eleventh tenet of the Scout Law is A Scout Is Clean. 13

14 ATTENDANCE AND PARTICIPATION STANDARDS All Scouts Scouts are encouraged to attend all Troop Activities. However, to maintain continued membership in the Troop, Scouts should attend and participate in: Each Camporee and Pre-Camporee (absences excused only by the Scoutmaster in advance) At least two thirds (2/3) of all Troop and Patrol meetings (measured over the immediately preceding twelve (12) months or shorter period if new to the Troop), and Six (6) other outdoor Troop Activities, i.e., campouts, hikes and Camp Royaneh, so (measured December 1 to November 30 Additionally, each Scout should perform ten (10) hours of services projects every twelve (12) months and must sell a minimum of ten (10) tickets to each of the two (2) Troop carwash fundraisers. Scouts not meeting these attendance and participation standards may be individually required to attend a "Scout Spirit" Board of Review comprised of Troop Scout and adult leaders to investigate and consider why the Scout is not participating in the Troop as the Troop would expect. The goal of the Board of Review would be devising a suitable strategy for the Scout to meet the standards. If a Scout thereafter continues to not meet the Troop s attendance and participation policies, the Scout may be subject to being removed from the Troop s rolls. Scout Troop and Patrol Leaders Leadership is by example. Therefore, the Senior Patrol Leader and all each Patrol Leader, or his respective designee, must attend all Troop meetings while serving in such leadership positions. Any excused absences must be arranged in advance with the Scoutmaster or the Committee. Failure by a Senior Patrol Leader or a Patrol Leader or his respective designee to attend during the Leader s term (excluding the excused absences described above) may result in the Scout not receiving credit for the position of responsibility for rank advancement purposes. By accepting the Patrol Leader or staff position, the Scout automatically commits to this level of attendance and participation. Administration Each Patrol Leader is responsible for encouraging and, in cooperation with the Troop Scribe, monitoring the attendance and participation in Troop Activities of all Scouts in his Patrol. Patrol Leaders also are responsible for reporting at each Patrol Leader Council meeting if his Patrol is experiencing any attendance and participation shortfalls or other potentially adverse issues. Patrol Leaders also are responsible for seeking support and guidance from the Patrol Leader Council and the Scoutmaster as to how to address and effectively resolve attendance and participation issues in a positive and encouraging manner. 14

15 ADVANCEMENT Rank Advancement Requirements The Troop does not impose any requirements for rank advancement in addition to the mandatory requirements set forth in the Boy Scout Handbook, including any required time sequence other than the BSA mandatory requirement that a Scout must attain the rank of Eagle by age eighteen (18). Note: For additional information on merit badges and their requirements, please see the Merit Badges page of the U.S. Scouting Service Project, and at Optional Timing Guide All Scouts advance at different rates and thus may achieve rank advancement at different rates. To give each Scout guidance and cadence and to provide sufficient time for a Scout to mature and develop proficiency in Scouting skills and leadership, this Troop assumes that at least five (5) years of training is required from the time a Scout enters the Troop to attaining the rank of Eagle. This generally means at least one year for each rank advancement other than from Life to Eagle, which usually requires longer. Leadership Serving in various Boy Scout troop positions of responsibility is an integral part of rank advancement. The Troop has adopted the descriptions and requirements of the Troop positions of responsibility set forth in Appendix II to these Troop Policies. Scoutmaster Conferences Purpose The Scoutmaster s Conference is a wonderful opportunity for the Scout to discuss his position within the Troop and for the Scoutmaster to individually emphasize the importance of living the Scout Oath and the Scout Law in the Scout s everyday life. The Troop s policy is that every Scout have at least one conference every year. A Scoutmaster s Conference also is required for every rank advancement. Scheduling and Administration Generally, Scoutmaster s Conferences are held prior to most Troop meetings by appointment. Scouts must check with Scoutmaster to make sure the Scoutmaster is available that night and must schedule a conference in advance. Scouts should not wait until just before the Court of Honor before trying to schedule a Scoutmaster s Conference necessary for his rank advancement. Assistant Scoutmasters may conduct Scoutmaster s Conferences only in rare emergencies. Participation and Advancement Records Upon the request of the Scout, the Advancement Coordinator will make Scout participation and advancement records available in advance for Scoutmaster s Conferences and Boards of Review to help the Scoutmaster evaluate participation, Scout Spirit and completion of requirements. Scouts should note that adherence to the Troop s attendance and participation standards is a criterion for the Scout Spirit portion of a Scoutmaster s Conference. 15

16 ADVANCEMENT Accordingly, the Scout must arrange to have the Scoutmaster s Conference and Board of Review scheduled with enough advance notice to print or otherwise furnish the Scout s participation and advancement records to the Scoutmaster and to the Board of Review Coordinator / Board of Review. The Scout is solely responsible for bringing a copy of his participation and advancement records with him to the Scoutmaster s Conference and the Board of Review. Scoutmaster s Conference Report Form The Scoutmaster will record the results of the Scoutmaster s Conference on the Troop 234 Scoutmaster s Conference Report Form (see sample Form at end of this Advancement section). The Form serves as written evidence for advancement records. The Form also serves as a record of Scoutmaster s Conferences that did not result in advancement. The Scoutmaster will use the Troop 234 Scoutmaster s Conference/Board of Review Report form when required to indicate steps needed to compete advancement requirements before a Board of Review or to address other advancement issues. The Scoutmaster also will use the Form for Scoutmaster s Conferences held when the Scout has no advancement pending. The Troop 234 Scoutmaster s Conference Report Form is the record that a Scoutmaster s Conference has taken place. By its absence for some Scouts, this Form will help the Troop to identify those who have not had recent Scoutmaster s Conferences and will be an input to the Advancement Coordinator s reports to the Scoutmaster. The Scout is responsible for bringing the Form to the Scoutmaster s Conference, the Board of Review and the Advancement Coordinator after a successful completion of a Scoutmaster s Conference and Board of Review. Boards of Review Boards of Review will be conducted generally in accordance with the guidelines as specified in the most recent issue of the official BSA Advancement Policy. The Board of Review Coordinator schedule Boards of Review as frequently as practical. Scouts will be responsible for arranging and scheduling their own Boards of Review following their Scoutmaster s Conferences. As a matter of Troop policy, a minimum of three (3) adults (or two (2) adults and one Scout of Star rank or higher, a Senior Scout ) must sit on each Board of Review, at least two (2) of whom must be registered Committee members. Other adults are encouraged to participate, except that no parent may sit on their own son s Board of Review. Assistant Scoutmasters and other uniformed adult leaders should serve on Boards of Review only when enough other adults are not available. The Board of Review Coordinator is responsible for providing Boards of Review with instructions and suggested questions for various ranks. A uniform inspection will be part of every Troop Board of Review. Scouts wishing to have a Board of Review must wear a full Class A Scout uniform (including merit badge sash, if owned). Scout uniforms should have all earned patches in place, including but not limited to the current Scout rank, Troop number, local BSA Council patch, Order of the Arrow flap (if owned), leadership position, and Patrol. A Scout not in full Class A uniform will not be allowed to have a Board of Review. 16

17 ADVANCEMENT A Scout meeting a Troop Board of Review must have his Boy Scout Handbook and signed Scoutmaster s Conference Report form and a filled-out Board of Review Report Form (see sample Form at end of this Advancement section) in his possession and be ready to discuss the requirements of the ranks he seeks. While it is not normal policy to retest the Scout, the Board of Review generally will ask the Scout to discuss how the Scout did in fact accomplish the requirements for the rank advance. (For example, "tell us about how you built your three difference types of fires" or "which knot was the hardest to learn" are likely questions while "show me the sheet bend" is not.) As a matter of Troop policy, in order to emphasize the importance of the Scout Oath and the Scout Law, every Scout will be asked to recite the Scout Oath as a minimum and the Scout Law on occasion. After talking with the Scout, the Board will excuse the Scout for a few minutes to enable the Board to talk together before making its decision. The Board of Review will record its results on the Troop 234 Board of Review Report Form (as well as in the Scout s Boy Scout Handbook). The Scout is responsible for delivering the completed Board of Review Report Form to the Advancement Coordinator. Passage of a Board of Review is not automatic and not meant to be. If problems are encountered that prevent the Board from bestowing the rank upon the Scout, the Board of Review will explain the problem to the Scout along with very specific guidance on what the Scout must do to resolve it and record that guidance on the Board of Review Report Form. As an example, if a Scout going for First Class was unable to recite the Scout Oath or did not understand its meaning, the Board Chair should tell the Scout in plain terms exactly what is expected. The Board Chair then promptly should inform the Scoutmaster of the problem and the Scout promptly must return the Board of Review Report Form to the Scoutmaster so that he can help the Scout prepare for his follow-up Board of Review. Then, as soon as possible, but normally not the same night, the Scout must schedule a new Board of Review. 17

18 ADVANCEMENT Conference Date TROOP 234 Scoutmaster s Conference Report Form Scout Patrol Rank Has met all requirements for advancement to, and I recommend that he schedule a Board of Review. Is advancing satisfactorily, and I have the following comments noted below. Is not yet ready for advancement, and should schedule another Scoutmaster s Conference when he is closer to completing the requirements. Scoutmaster s Comments Scoutmaster Scout 18

19 ADVANCEMENT TROOP 234 Board of Review Report Form Board of Review Date Scout Patrol Rank On, a Board of Review met and found that is ready to advance to the rank of. On, a Board of Review met and found that is not yet ready to advance to the rank of. Board Comments Board members 19

20 PARENTS RESPONSIBILITIES Parental Support and Participation Boy Scouting is meant to be a parent / son activity. Unlike the Cub Scout program, however, the entire emphasis of Boy Scouting is toward independence and self reliance. Therefore, it is important for parents to encourage their son and to give praise whenever possible. It also is just as important for parents to allow their son to advance at his own pace without undue parental pressure. At special "Courts of Honor," the Troop and the scouts parents recognize the Scouts achievements and reward the Scouts with badges, patches, recognition and appreciation. The Troop s policies therefore encourage all parents to come to these special events and give Scouting the emphasis that it deserves in their sons eyes. The Troop believes that parents will be rewarded a thousand times over -- in their son s accomplishments and his ever-increasing self esteem and abilities. As a general policy, the Troop also encourages parents to try to be as upbeat and positive with each and every Scout as often as the parents possibly can. The Troop s goal is for each boy to feel good about being a Scout and especially to feel good about coming to a Troop meeting or other Troop Activity. The Troop s policy is simple -- keep it fun and demonstrate Scout Spirit! Experience has shown that Scouts generally thrive in a positive environment where good performance is recognized and rewarded. If the Troop and the parents believe in them, Scouts will believe in themselves. Parents Promise Some parents are campers -- some are not. Some parents have lots of free time -- most do not. Also, some parents are single, with other kids to handle. Scouting therefore competes for every parent s time and attention. However, it goes without saying that a major strength of any Boy Scout troop is in the support of the Troop parents. The Troop s policy therefore is that there is a need from time to time for every parent to do something to support the Troop. ALL parents have something to offer -- perhaps a talent or a skill they can teach or share. The Troop always can use drivers, both to and from every Troop Activity. The Troop welcomes additional support at every campout. The annual summer camp, our high adventure/trek activities, hiking program, welcoming dinner, fund raising and services projects all require multiple adult support. Accordingly, the Troop 234 asks that each parent support the Troop and do what they can, subject, however, to a minimum level of commitment. That minimum level of commitment is set forth in the Troop s Parents Promise, which is attached as Appendix III to these Troop Policies. In order to ensure the Troop s continued success, the Troop requires each Scout s family to sign and return the form with the annual Scout Re-Registration. The Troop Committee also requires that each Scout s family selects and fulfills a minimum of four (4) commitments from the list of commitments shown there. A Scout s Re-Registration package will be deemed to be incomplete, and will not be accepted, without the signed Parents Promise form indicating four (4) selected commitments and without at least one parent registered as either an adult member or an Assistant Scoutmaster using an Adult Registration form. 20

21 PARENTS RESPONSIBILITIES Merit Badge Counselors One of the listed commitments is serving as a Merit Badge Counselor. Counselors in various disciplines are always needed, and the Troop invites parents to share their knowledge and skills as Merit Badge Counselors. All that is required is knowledge of the topic (either as a hobby or vocation) equal to the requirements set forth in the specific Merit Badge booklet. Counselors must be registered as such with the local BSA Council using an Adult Application form and must have completed a Merit Badge Counselor application for filing by the Troop s Advancement Coordinator. Except in cases approved by the Scoutmaster or Committee in advance, parents may not act as Merit Badge Counselors for their own sons. Note: For additional information on merit badges and their requirements, please see the Merit Badges page of the U.S. Scouting Service Project, and at 21

22 ADULT LEADERSHIP Troop Committee Subject to the charter agreement between the sponsoring organization, the St. Monica s Church Men s Club, and the BSA, the Troop is governed and managed by the Troop Committee. The Troop adopted a Committee structure with leadership positions and descriptions of duties as noted below. The positions and descriptions of duties are based on the positions in the Troop Committee Guidebook published by BSA. All Committee decisions are by majority vote of all registered adults at a duly noticed or regularly scheduled Committee meeting to which all nonregistered adults are welcome to provide input. Decisions to be taken by the Committee include but are not limited to the Troop s annual budget and election of Committee Chair and Committee Department Heads and other proposals determined by the Committee Chair or Department Heads. Committee Chair Organize the Committee to see that all functions are delegated, coordinated, and completed. Maintain a close relationship with the chartered organization representative and the Scoutmaster. Interpret national and local scout policies to the Troop. Prepare Troop Committee meeting agendas. Call, preside over, and promote attendance at monthly committee meetings and any special meetings that may be called. Ensure Troop representation at monthly roundtables Secure top-notch, trained individuals for camp leadership. Arrange for charter review and re-charter annually. Plan the charter presentation. Secretary Keep minutes of Committee Meetings and send out Committee Meeting Notices Handle Publicity o Newspaper articles for Eagle Scout Announcements and High Adventures Oversight of preparation of a family newsletter of Troop events and activities o Monthly Newsletter (Note: Newsletter editor could be separate individual) o At each Committee Meeting, report the notes of the previous Committee Meeting. Oversee the Troop Website o Make sure the Website is informative, accurate and up-to-date o Oversee others that work on the Web Site. Report to the Troop Committee at each Committee Meeting. 22

23 ADULT LEADERSHIP Treasurer Handle all Troop funds. Pay bills on recommendation of the Scoutmaster and authorization of the Troop Committee. Maintain checking and savings accounts. o Oversee Troop Charge Account at Council Service Center. Keep adequate Records of Troop Financials. Supervise Money Earning Projects, including obtaining proper authorizations. o Oversee fundraising activities including the Car Wash. Supervise the Funds for Camp Royaneh and Philmont ( high cost Troop Activities). o Lead in the preparation of the annual Troop budget. Oversee the Friends of Scouting Campaign. Report to the Troop Committee at each Committee Meeting. Take lead in setting policies for Troop finances. o Take lead in setting policy for how outings are financed. Train Scouts and adults in reimbursement procedures Report to the Troop Committee at each Committee Meeting. Outdoor/Activities Coordinator Lead/oversee the Troop Calendar Planning/Maintenance. o Make sure adequate and qualified adult leadership is planned for and present at Troop Activities. o Plan Calendar to enable Scouts to achieve the Troop Participation Standards. o Be responsible for keeping Calendar up-to-date. Plan for Family Night Programs and Family Activities o Oversee others that lead these activities: Beginning of Scout Year Family Dinner/Cookout o (Note: Dinner/Cookout would have separate leadership) Fall Family Outing o (Note: Fall Family Outing would be have separate leadership) End of Scout Year Family Dinner/Cookout o (Note: End of year Dinner/Cookout would have separate leadership) Promote the National Camping Award. 23