BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA Troop 432. Parent and Scout Reference Guide. Chartered by

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1 BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA Troop 432 Parent and Scout Reference Guide Chartered by Grace United Methodist Church 9325 Newberry Road Gainesville, FL MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Troop 432 shall be to provide each Scout with the opportunities to; develop leadership skills, strengthen pride in Self, Troop and Country; and to acquire skills for a lifetime. The mission of Troop 432 shall be achieved in an environment which is safe, nurturing, supportive and enjoyable. Objectives Provide clear guidelines and expectations to all Scouts Encourage Scouts, in a positive manner, to achieve their highest potential Require that all leaders acquire Basic Leadership Training Train Scouts in leadership positions in order that the Scout s duties and responsibilities are clearly defined Implement three strike policy for behavior that is unbecoming of a Scout and/or goes against the Scout oath or promise To develop all aspects of individual Troop members; physical, mental, spiritual and emotional To be inclusive and non-discriminatory in regard to race, national origin or religious affiliation Members shall be trained and guided in order to become increasingly productive and beneficial members of our society Parental involvement is encouraged within the Troop To offer Scouts a wide variety of activities, experiences and programs To accomplish service projects for charter organization and the community December 2006 revision

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Section Subsection Page Boy Scout Troop 432 Welcome 3 Meeting Time 3 Service Projects 3 Uniform 4 Equipment 5 Financial Information Transfer/Recharter/Dues 5 Fees for Outings/Activities 6 Summer Camp 6 Payment Guidelines 6 Schlorships 6 Fundraising 7 Communication Troop Communication 7 Scoutmaster Conference 8 Board of Review 8 Court of Honor 8 Parent Commitment 8 What is Scouting All About? Aims of Scouting 9 Methods of Scouting 9 Scout Oath 9 Scout Motto 9 Scout Law 9 Leadership and Advancement General Overview 10 Merit Badges 11 Advancement 11 Leadership Requirements 12 Troop Youth Leadership Roles 13 Troop Health and Safety 17 Drug, Alcohol, Tobacco Use and Abuse 17 Prescriptions 18 Driver Responsibility and Vehicle Safety 18 Swimmers Test 18 Insurance 18 Nuturing and Supportive Environment 18 Camp Out Guidelines 19 Organizational Structure 20 Joining Troop

3 Welcome What is Scouting all about? What will you be expected to do? What does it cost? We have prepared this booklet to answer these questions. The following pages describe the organization of a Troop and the advancement program that each boy will follow. Reading this will help you understand how your boy can progress through the ranks with your help. It will help you understand how you can help and what the various adult volunteers are doing to help the Troop. This booklet is accurate as of the time of printing, but changes could be implemented through out the year. In addition, this is summary information and information that is more detailed can be found in the various BSA booklets. Boy Scout Troop 432 Grace United Methodist Church, Gainesville, Florida charters Boy Scout Troop 432. We meet on Monday evenings from 7:00 to 8:30 PM and the basic structure of our meeting is Opening (10 minutes), Patrol Corners (15 minutes), Program (60 minutes) and Closing (5 minutes). The Troop Committee, Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters pledge to assist each Scout in the development of his duties to God and Country, to others and to himself. We hope to develop an awareness of self-reliance, to improve individual and group skills, and to increase his abilities and knowledge. Scouting involves more than the basic activities usually associated with the program, such as tying knots, cooking, and camping. While this is an integral part of Scouting, Troop 432's program also includes both adventure and work, with emphasis on growth and advancement in all phases of character building, citizenship, acceptance of responsibility, planning, achievement, and evaluation. Our program is a combination of weekly meetings, camp outs, service projects and fundraisers. The Troop has limited its size to fifty scouts. A waiting list of potential new members is maintained by the Troop Scoutmaster. Meeting Time: The Troop meets on Monday evenings, excluding school holidays. Camp outs are scheduled ten months of the year with a week of summer camp. A twelve-month rolling calendar is in place to help families' plan for events. The Troop ensures there are many opportunities for the boys, but it does not mean a Scout has to participate in every event. Academics, sports and other family commitments will preclude participation in some events. Scouts are expected to attend Troop meetings, be on time, in uniform, and participate with good Scout Spirit. Scout Spirit requires living every day in accordance with the Scout Oath, the twelve points of the Scout Law, the Scout Motto and the Scout Slogan. Patrol Leaders will take attendance at all Troop meetings. Participation in Troop activities (Troop meetings, service and fundraising activities, and planning or training events) is a requirement for advancement. Regular attendance is required to participate in Troop outdoor events or hold a Troop position. Absences due to illness, schoolwork, or participation in another organized activity will be counted as an excused absence. Service Projects In order for service hours to count for the Troop service award or rank advancement, it must be a Troop sponsored service event, the Scouts must be in the designated uniform and there cannot be any individual Scout reimbursement. The Troop does have an annual service award program. Guidelines for the annual Katherine Hutchinson service recognition award are as follows. 3

4 Katherine Hutchison, the founder and first Scoutmaster of Troop 432, will be remembered for her dedication and commitment to the Scouts of Troop 432 and her ability to instill the value of, A Good turn daily 1. Service hours may be accumulated from January 1 through December 31 of each year. 2. Service projects considered for the Service Recognition Award are approved by the Troop Committee. 3. Service hours awarded for each service project are approved by the Troop Committee following the event. 4. The Scout with the most service hours at the end of the year is recognized as the recipient of the Award. 5. Formal recognition will be presented to the Scout at the first Court of Honor following December 31 with their name being placed on the Service Recognition Award. Uniforms: Each Scout is required to have and wear, within a reasonable amount of time after joining the Troop, the following uniform items: Field or "Class A" Uniform Tan Scout shirt with appropriate insignia and patches (North Florida Council strip, red shoulder loops, World Brotherhood Emblem and patrol emblem), etc Troop number Scout neckerchief or Scout bolo tie Neckerchief slide (can be purchased or made by Scout) Olive Scout pants or shorts are preferred. If not Scout pants or shorts, the pants or shorts should be olive green Boy Scout socks, for wearing with shorts or pants Boy Scout hat - baseball style (Optional, but not substituted) Scout belt and buckle Tennis shoes or hiking boots. Socks are required Activity or "Class B" Uniform Troop or camp T-shirt. (The troop orders t-shirts once a year in the spring and the cost is approximately $7 to $10, depending on the size) Tennis shoes or hiking boots. Socks are required. Olive Scout pants or shorts are preferred; jeans or dark colored shorts are acceptable Boy Scout socks Worn as instructed by Troop leadership, when activities may cause damage to the class A Uniform Scout Attire: When traveling out of town or within town, Scouts will travel in class A uniform. Shirt should be tucked in, belt tightened, etc If the proper uniform is not worn, the Scout will not be allowed to travel to the Scout event. All ASM s will enforce the Troop policy Full Scout uniform is required for Scoutmaster Conferences and Board of Reviews Scouts who show up for a Court of Honor without the proper uniform will not receive an advancement badge 4

5 Footwear: No open-toed shoes allowed! Tennis shoes and lightweight boots are recommended for camping and hiking. Sandals are allowed at showers and water front activities ONLY and at the Scoutmaster s discretion. Note: For water activity such as canoeing and kayaking, open toed shoes are not allowed. Note: Since boys grow quickly at this age, we do have a recycle box of troop uniforms and t-shirts that any Scout is welcome to look through for his size. Note: ALL clothing and other items should be permanently marked with the Scout s name. Camouflage pants and shirts may not be worn at any scout activities. Equipment General: Read and look first. If you have a new Scout, do not rush out and spend a lot of money on camping equipment. Start by reading pages 224 through 243in your son s Boy Scout handbook. Ask some of his fellow Scouts or his leaders what type of pack and sleeping bag they should have and what they like and don't like about them and why. Have your Scout go on a camping trip using an old sleeping bag (or borrow one) and have him look around at the various types to see what may work best for him.. The Troop Committee has developed an equipment checklist, which is posted on the Troop website. This list is not all-inclusive and should be used only as a guide. Camping: Each Scout is to provide his own personal mess kit with eating utensils and plastic drinking cup. The Troop will provide basic cooking equipment, i.e., cooking utensils, pots, skillets, stove, etc. Each Scout shall provide a sleeping bag or bedroll, personal clothing and a pack to carry his gear. The Troop has a limited number of tents available for camp outs, but some Scouts prefer using their own tent. Pocketknife: The knife is a major piece of camping equipment that your son will keep and use as he grows older. A cheap knife will dull easily and be difficult to sharpen. While an official BSA knife is not necessary, it will gain a great deal of sentimental value. A knife with a locking blade is safer, and the blade must not be over four inches in length. Fixed blade knives are not allowed at Boy Scout functions. Do not bring anything that has a high monetary or sentimental value. We have discovered that things have a way of being misplaced or broken on campouts! The Troop will assume no responsibility for these items. Damage to Troop Equipment/Property Since the Troop has invested a great deal of money in equipment for the Scouts to use, each Scout is expected to use and care for it better than if it were his own. Deliberate or negligent damage by any Scout of any equipment, whether Troop-owned or privately owned, will be cause for such Scout to be responsible for the repair, replacement or reimbursement to the Troop, for the cost of such repair or replacement. Financial Information Transfers/Rechartering/Dues: The annual fee for each Scout in Troop 432 is $80.00 and prorated as follows: Scouts that transfer from any BSA Unit: From January 1-July 31 the fee is $55.00 From August 1-December 31 the fee is $

6 Any boy, not Registered with a BSA Unit, is a New Scout: From January 1-through July 31 the fee is $80.00 From August 1-December 31 the fee is $50.00 The annual fee includes a subscription to Boys Life magazine, national BSA membership, and insurance. If a rechartering fee is not paid by the deadline, the scout is dropped from the roster. The Troop Committee may impose a fee for late payments and paperwork. Delinquent accounts may result in a Scout being placed on inactive status or being prohibited from taking part in Troop activities until the account is cleared. Inactive status and non-participation in activities will prevent further advancement. Any account more that 4 weeks in arrears is considered delinquent. The Scout may become active again by paying all delinquent dues, assuming there is space in the troop. Fees for Outings / Activities: The Troop dues do not provide sufficient funds to sponsor Troop camping trips, events and equipment purchase and replacement. Generally, the cost of attending a regular camping trip will be $20, which includes the two nights of camping at $4 per night, the cost of food at $10 and $2 for the gas for transporting the troop gear. Insurance: Our vendor for insurance is Health Special Risk, Inc. The unit accident plan covers registered Scouts, registered adults and any non Scouts (youth or adult) who are being encouraged to become registered leaders or Scouts. Other guests are NOT covered. We are a very family oriented Troop and family members who are not registered with the Troop often attend our meetings, camp outs or events. Family members that are not registered, WILL NOT be covered by our unit accident plan. It does not mean they cannot attend, but that the unit's accident insurance plan does not cover them. Summer Camp: Our Troop attends a week of summer camp each year at a nationally accredited Scout Camp. Summer camp provides advancement opportunities that simply cannot be beat and certain skills and merit badges that may not be available anywhere else. All Scouts are encouraged to participate in the summer camp program. Fees range from $130 to $250, depending on the camp and location. For out of state camps, transportation is approximately $100 in addition to the registration fee. Payment Guidelines: Payment dates for events are announced in advance. Due to the size of our Troop and the need to send payments in advance, payment deadlines are strictly adhered to. Scholarships (Anticipated to be available and there are fundraising opportunities for Scouts to earn money for Scout events/equipment, uniforms. In order to allow boys of financial need to participate in scouting events, a scholarship fund has been established by the charter organization and is administered through the Troop. A scholarship subcommittee consisting of three Troop Committee members has been established to review and approve all scholarship requests. Scholarship requests should be submitted to the Troop Committee Chair, Scoutmaster or Treasurer who will then refer the request to the Troop Scholarship Sub-Committee. Scholarships may be granted for fees for the following Scout activities: 6

7 Summer Camp Troop trips and activities Rechartering/dues Full or partial scholarship awards may be granted on a first come, first served basis according to the following criteria and at the sole discretion of the Troop Scholarship Sub-Committee. Criteria to be considered will include: Tenure - the Scout has been active in the Troop for 4 months Participation - the Scout regularly attends Troop meetings and activities Contribution - the Scout provides personal contribution in the form of workday and fundraising project participation. Fund Raising The boys raise funds for the Troop through various fund-raising activities. Communications Troop Communication As boys develop into adults, it is essential that they assume certain responsibilities of listening to announcements at Troop activities and taking necessary notes in order to be aware of upcoming activities and other pertinent information. Information is conveyed during the weekly meetings and via . The weekly updates include upcoming events, payments, deadlines and sign ups. In addition, the Troop Committee, Patrol Leaders Conference and the SM/ASM meeting minutes are distributed via . If a Scout is unable to attend a regular Troop meeting, he is responsible for reading the updates or contacting his Patrol Leader or another patrol member to obtain any information from that meeting. In addition, the Troop web page is periodically updated. Communications outside of a regular meeting will be conveyed via . If a Scout should still need more information, he should call his Patrol Leader. If you find you are not receiving required information, it is the Scout's responsibility to contact the Treasurer with the correct and complete information. The membership log is developed at the time of Recharter and is based upon information submitted on the Troop data sheet. Volunteers in the Troop: There are many adults in the Troop who spend considerable time at the meetings, camp outs or behind the scenes keeping this Troop alive and vibrant. All of these individuals are volunteers and are doing so to benefit the boys. Aggressive and rude behavior towards the Troop volunteers is not acceptable. Rudeness and unrealistic demands will be addressed. Everyone is asked to bring differences of opinion and issues they have with others to the person. If no satisfaction or understanding is gained, find two adults to serve as witness/counselor and address the offending adult. If no satisfaction or understanding is gained, bring the issue to the Troop Committee. If an adult is upset or offended by the actions of another, it is unacceptable to be upset about an adult's behavior, comments or actions and not take action. If an adult will not speak up to resolve the issue, then the issue must not be important enough to talk about. If leaders of the Troop are involved in the disagreement/issue, the policy of the Troop and the professional morality of the leaders is that there will not be an adult to adult conflict that will carry over to or impact any youth member. (i.e. Bringing up an issue or a concern will not result in a negative impact on a youth or adult). 7

8 Scoutmaster Conference Participation in a Scoutmaster Conference is a requirement for every rank. The purpose of the conference is to ensure that the Scout is ready for his Board of Review. The conference is also an opportunity for the Scoutmaster to review the Scout's personal growth and set goals for future advancement. All requirements must be complete and signed off by the merit badge counselor or the ASM prior to the Scoutmaster Conference. A Scoutmaster Conference is scheduled by the Advancement Chair. Please allow at least two weeks notice. Board of Review When a Scout has completed all the requirements for a rank, he appears before a Board of Review composed of at least three and not more than six members of the Troop, led by the Troop Advancement Chair or designee. The purpose of the review is not an examination. Rather, it is to determine the Scout's attitude and acceptance of Scouting's ideals, to ensure that the requirements have been met for advancement, to discuss the Scout's experiences in the Troop and the Troop's program, and to encourage him to keep working toward advancement. A Board of Review may also be held to counsel a boy about his lack of progress toward advancement. The Troop Committee reserves the right to not conduct a Board of Review if the Scout is not in his Class A uniform or has not demonstrated appropriate Scout behavior in recent activities. All requirements must be complete and signed off by the merit badge counselor or ASM prior to the Board of Review. A Board of Review is scheduled through the Advancement Chair. Please allow at least two weeks notice. Court of Honor Troop 432 will generally conduct a Court of Honor two to four times per year. The Court of Honor recognizes all Scout appointments, elections, awards, and advancements as of two weeks before the Court of Honor. The Troop's Patrol Leaders Council plans and conducts the Troop Courts of Honor. All of the scout's family and friends are welcome to attend and celebrate the accomplishments. Parent Commitment As a parent or guardian, your role is to ensure your Scout is on time, prepared, paperwork is complete, payments are made by the due date and that your Scout participates and fulfills his duties and responsibilities. Each Scout's parent or guardian is asked to contribute to the Troop and its activities in some way. Many resources and talents are required to operate a Troop and to have a quality program. If the Troop Resource Survey does not address your abilities, discuss with the Scoutmaster or a Troop Committee member ways you can assist the Troop. It is expected that each Scout's family unit will contribute to the Scout's Troop and its program. Please support the Troop by volunteering either for the Troop Committee, as an Assistant Scoutmaster, Merit Badge Counselor or to assist with other Troop functions. The benefits that the Scout receives are directly proportionate to both the QUALITY and QUANTITY of parental support and participation. Encourage and assist your boy in obtaining the most out of scouting. He needs your support! The role of parents within Troop 432 is to be supportive of the Troop's efforts and to provide the atmosphere Scouts need to learn and excel. 8

9 WHAT IS SCOUTING ALL ABOUT? Three Aims of Scouting These three aims are the bedrock of the American To build character Scouting movement. They represent the long-term To foster citizenship outcomes we want for every boy. To develop fitness Eight Methods of Scouting Ideals Eight methods of Scouting are used to achieve the aims. Patrols They are an integral part of everything the Troop does. Outdoors Advancement Personal Growth Adult Association Leadership Development The Uniform Mission Statement of the Boy Scouts of America It is the mission of the Boy Scouts of America to serve others by helping to instill values in young people and to prepare them to make ethical choices during their lifetime in achieving their full potential. The values we strive to instill are based on those found in the Scout Oath and Scout Law. SCOUT OATH A Scout is: Trustworthy Loyal Helpful Friendly Courteous Kind Obedient Cheerful Thrifty Brave Clean Reverent SCOUT MOTTO Be Prepared SCOUT SLOGAN Do a Good Turn Daily SCOUT LAW On my honor I will do my best To do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; To help other people at all times; To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. 9

10 Leadership and Advancement The Boy Scouts of America is the largest youth oriented organization in the United States, with more than 4 million boys and leaders are currently registered in the Boy Scouts of America. Since 1910, the principles of Scouting have been taught in an atmosphere of recreation and fun, which allows young people to develop self-confidence, leadership and moral character. More and more men, trained as Scouts, are taking their places in today's world as responsible adult leaders. Men who earned badges as Scouts sit on the Supreme Court, in the chambers of Congress and hold important offices in our government, business and industry. Unlike Cub Scouting, which many of you are familiar with; Boy Scouting is a youth-led organization. The boys learn how to organize and lead the Troop. After training, and with supervision from the adult leaders, the boys run the show. Boy Scouting also provides for growth of moral strength and character, teaches citizenship, and enhances the development of physical, mental and emotional fitness all done in the spirit of fun and adventure. The boys in the Troop will be working towards their First Class and then Eagle ranks. As they travel on their trail to Eagle they will not only learn how to lead a team to a goal, but they will actually lead teams of Scouts in a number of situations. Many Eagle Scouts put their accomplishments on their resumes and find those accomplishments are often considered in obtaining acceptance into college or the work force. ADVANCEMENT In General There are many definitions of advancement, but the Scouting definition might well be the art of meeting a challenge, for that is exactly what the Boy Scout advancement program asks the boys to do. The Boy Scout advancement program provides a ladder of skills that a Scout climbs at his own pace. As he acquires these skills, he moves up through a series of ranks, for which he is awarded badges. The higher he climbs the more challenging his tasks, and the more rewarding. Scout Ranks: Tenderfoot Second Class First Class Star Life Eagle Eagle Palms Achievements include: Learning skills that qualify for Scouting's more rugged and exciting outdoor challenges Developing body and mind, growing self-confidence, and helping younger Scouts climb the advancement ladder Discovering how it feels to go further, in so many ways, than he ever thought he could We do not look at advancement as a goal, but as a natural outcome of a planned, quality Troop program. There are four steps of advancement: The Boy Scout Learns The Boy Scout is Tested The Boy Scout is Reviewed The Boy Scout is Recognized 10

11 Merit Badges A merit badge is an award that is presented to a Scout when he completes the requirements for one of the merit badge subjects. Some subjects are in craftwork, some in vocational fields, some in service to others, and many in cultural or self-improvement areas. In addition, certain merit badges are required for the Eagle Scout rank. It is in the career fields that adults can make a vital impact on the life of a Scout by helping him with merit badges. Badges such as Entrepreneurship, Graphic Arts, Engineering, Chemistry, and many others provide the finest kind of orientation toward a possible career for the Scout. Merit badge counselors provide the means for Scouts to explore many subjects that may not be available to them otherwise. The Scout who has earned a number of merit badges gains confidence, finds greater purpose in life, and becomes a better person from his experience. Merit Badge Counselor Merit badge counselors are the keys to success in the merit badge plan. They offer their time, experience, and knowledge to help guide Scouts in one or more of the merit badge subjects. For Troop sponsored or coordinated merit badges, there will be a sign up sheet on the bulletin board and Scouts sign up. Depending on the merit badge, the counselor can limit the number of scouts participating. Unless it is designated a special Troop wide merit badge, the size of the class should not exceed 20 to 23 Scouts. Anymore than that and it is hard to really get to know the Scouts and for them to have many opportunities to actively, participate. If at any time the counselor feels a Scout is not exhibiting appropriate interest or behavior, the Scout may be asked to leave the merit badge program. If a Scout decides to do a merit badge not sponsored by the Troop program, then the person helping the Scout must be a registered merit badge counselor for the merit badge. The troop maintains a master list of all merit badge counselors and associated merit badges for the Troop. Advancement through First Class Rank requirements are found on pages of the current handbook. From the time the Scout enters the Troop through the time he earns First Class, he is learning basic scouting skills to enable him to camp, hike, swim, cook, tie knots, administer first aid, and perform other tasks in the outdoors and to work as a member of a team. With those first steps, the Scout begins to build himself physically, mentally, and morally. He will start to live by the Scout Oath and Law. He learns the symbolism inherent in the Scout badge; that the three points of the trefoil stand for the three parts of the Scout Oath: Duty to God and country, duty to other people, and duty to self. The goal of this Troop is for the Scout to achieve the rank of First Class within his first 12 to 18 months in the Troop. From Star to Eagle Rank requirements are found on pages of the current handbook. From the achievement of Star through Eagle, the Scout will be demonstrating leadership, performing service projects, earning merit badges and using the skills learned while achieving the rank of First Class. The rank of Star to Eagle are harder to earn than the earlier ranks but are also 11

12 more interesting for the older Scouts. Upon completion of all the requirements for Star and Life, the Scout will be eligible to work towards his Eagle. The original principles, the Scout Oath and Law, now have fuller meaning for the Scout and his understanding of these is much greater. The final steps toward Eagle are filled with leadership experiences. Leadership Requirements (Some are elected and some are appointed positions) Troop Leadership positions Appointed YOUTH POSITION: SENIOR PATROL LEADER ASST. SENIOR PATROL LEADER SCRIBE QUARTERMASTER (2) CHAPLAIN AIDE HISTORIAN LIBRARIAN BUGLER TROOP GUIDE (MULTIPLE) DEN CHIEF (UNLIMITED) ADULT COUNSELOR: SCOUTMASTER SCOUTMASTER ASM ASM/QUARTERMASTER LAY CHAPLAIN ASM TBA ASM SHARK ASM ASM One or a combination of the following positions with a minimum of six months in office will be accepted as fulfilling the leadership requirements for the Star and Life ranks: Senior Patrol Leader Assistant Senior Patrol Leader Den Chief Troop Chaplain Aide Troop Scribe Troop Quartermaster Troop Librarian Troop Historian Troop Guide Patrol Leader Troop Bugler One or a combination of the following positions with a minimum of six months in office will be accepted as fulfilling the leadership requirements for the Eagle rank: Patrol Leader Assistant Senior Patrol Leader Senior Patrol Leader Junior Assistant Scoutmaster Den Chief Troop Chaplain Aide Troop Scribe Troop Quartermaster 12

13 Troop Librarian Troop Guide Troop Historian In addition to simply holding a position, the officers must fulfill the duties as described in the Junior Leader Handbook and this reference guide. Tenure in these positions must be demonstrated at the Board of Review in order to advance. It is the Scout s responsibility to maintain and provide this documentation. Leadership Requirements for Advancement and Evidence of Completion For the requirements of Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class, the Boy Scout Handbook has enough detail for the Scout and the Board of Review to conduct an appropriate review. For the Star, Life and Eagle requirements, the Boy Scout Handbook requires tenure in any of several noted positions of leadership within the Troop. Below is a list of some leadership positions within the Troop, their job descriptions and the evidence of accomplishment. Such evidence or approved equal evidence (as agreed to by the Scoutmaster, the Advancement Chair and the Troop Committee Chair) will be required to achieve advancement and must be demonstrated at your Board of Review. The Scout will be solely responsible for documenting, assembling and presenting the required evidence for advancement. A Board of Review must be scheduled two weeks in advance (with the Advancement Chair) and must be completed at least two weeks before any Court of Honor. A Board of Review can be held on any regularly scheduled Troop meeting night and generally, the Board can only review a maximum of five (5) Scouts at any routine meeting. All Scouts must complete a Scoutmaster Conference before their Board of Review. TROOP YOUTH LEADERSHIP ROLES Senior Patrol Leader Senior Patrol Leader position in Troop responsible for coordination of patrols at Troop functions Establishes and chairs Patrol Leader Councils Provides strong, energetic, encouraging leadership to the Troop Leads Troop meeting Responsible for opening and closing of Troop events Responsible for communication interface between Scoutmaster and Patrol Leaders Moderates boy-boy conflicts as required Sets good example by working on own advancement, taking Junior Leadership Training and living by the Scout Oath and Law Show plans for at least 4 Troop meetings including an agenda for the meetings Show the agenda for the last 2 PLC meetings with a summary of the important decisions reached Maintain a regular PLC meeting schedule Show attendance at PLC meetings 13

14 Assistant Senior Patrol Leader Steps in to serve when Senior Patrol Leader is absent Assists Senior Patrol Leader in operations of the Troop May carry out special tasks as assigned by Senior Patrol Leader such as overseeing members advancement Leads at least 2 Troop meetings and can show where he has helped the Senior Patrol Leader at least 5 times for planning Troop activities Troop Chaplain Aide Conduct non-denominational Troop religious services and prayer. Assist in seeing that religious holidays are recognized during Troop activities. Promote the religious emblem program. Ensure that reverence is observed at Troop functions. Begin your own religious emblem program. Deliver non-denominational prayer for at least four Scout Troop meetings. Lead two non denominational Troop religious services during campouts. Show attendance (average of 50% participation) at your place of worship. Troop Scribe Functions as the Troop secretary. Documents PLC meetings, keeps records of attendance at meetings and activities, dues payment and Troop advancement. Works with member of Troop Committee to carry out duties. Can show minutes taken from PLC meetings that include important decisions and attendance. Can show accurate and up to date Troop records. Troop Quartermaster Maintains current inventory of patrol and Troop equipment. Ensures that patrol quartermasters have accurate records. Checks Troop equipment in and out. Regularly inspects equipment and reports condition including repairs and replacements to PLC. Works with member of the Troop Committee to carry out duties. Can show a current inventory of all of the Troops camping equipment. Must also be able to show records of most recent camping checklists (check out and check in ofall equipment). All patrol and Troop equipment is documented, accounted for and in good repair. Troop Librarian Maintains Troop library including pamphlets, Merit Badge Books, counselor list, audiovisual materials and other written Troop materials. Is responsible for checking materials in and out, maintaining inventory and condition, keeping materials up to date. 14

15 Can show a current and accurate inventory of all Troop merit badge books and a list of merit badge counselors. Must also show a current list of who has checked out the books in the last 4 months. Materials are current and available. Troop Historian Maintains Troop memorabilia (photos, news stories, trophies, flags, scrapbooks and awards). Documents Troop activities with text and photos. Assigns duties when unable to attend events. Must show that he has added at least two full pages (front and back) to the Troop history book that includes pictures and at least a half page of descriptive test. Newspaper clippings of Troop activities can be substituted for the pictures. Shows documentation of all Troop events. Troop Guide 1) Objective Criteria a) Star Rank b) Participation in different areas of the Troop meetings, campouts, service projects inside and outside of the Troop, fundraising. 2) Subjective Criteria a) Leadership, the willingness, attitude and ability to work with and provide for others in the Troop. b) Advancement progress Removal from this position may happen if there is positional change, lack of participation or unwillingness to help with other patrols. Guides will be assigned to patrols, to participate in patrol corners and campouts for mentoring and guidance, with the supervision and at the discretion of the Scoutmaster. Den Chief Works with a Cub Scout Den to provide assistance during den and pack activities. Provides leadership by example and acts as a role model for the younger Cub Scouts. Acts as a key link for Webelos transition to a Boy Scout Troop. Assists in advancement of Cub Scouts by leading selected activities and supporting the Den Leader. Written confirmation from the Cub Scout Den Leader that the Den Chief has assisted in den meetings and helped the Cub Scouts advance. Bugler Job description Troop Bugler: Sound bugle calls for the Troop during meetings, campouts or courts of honor using a bugle, trumpet or cornet. Evidence of accomplishment - Sounds the following calls for the Troop on at least 3 campouts - reveille, assembly or mess, and taps or sounds the following calls for the Troop at summer camp for the week - reveille or assembly, and taps. Or sounds the requested call(s) (to the colors, assembly, church, retreat) for at least 4 meetings and a court of honor. Also, must have or complete the Bugling merit badge while holding the Troop bugler position. 15

16 Patrol Leader Appoints each member to a patrol job so that all can share in leadership Takes lead in planning and steering regular patrol meetings and activities Helps patrol members advance, and may teach scouting skills Encourages members to recruit new boys to fill patrol vacancies Represents patrol at PLC and reports to patrol regarding decisions of the council. Sets good example by working on own advancement, taking junior leadership training and living to the Scout Oath and Law Show his list of patrol jobs currently assigned to his patrol. Must show a duty roster for the most recent camping trip along with the menu. Must show regular attendance at PLC. Show his list of patrol jobs currently assigned to his patrol Assistant Patrol Leader Steps in to serve when patrol Leader is absent Assists patrol leader in operations of the patrol May carry out special tasks as assigned by patrol leader such as overseeing member's advancement. N/A for Star, Life and Eagle Advancement Patrol Quartermaster Responsible for patrol gear inventory and condition, maintains up to date inventory of patrol gear and assures that gear is ready for all outings N/A for Star, Life and Eagle Advancement Patrol Grub master Responsible for menu development and food procurement for all outings and outdoor program. Assigns duties to other members. Assures that nutritional meals are provided at all outings that are required. N/A for Star, Life and Eagle Advancement Patrol Cheer master Responsible for patrol spirit. Leads patrol in songs, yells, cheers, skits and campfire programs. Patrol regularly has spirit activity ready at meetings and outings. N/A for Star, Life and Eagle Advancement. 16

17 Eagle Rank For the Eagle service project, a boy must plan, develop and give leadership to others in a service project for any religious institution, school or his community while he is a Life Scout. Before any Eagle Service project is begun, the Scout needs to contact the Advancement Chair for a copy of the packet of information for Eagle. Eagle service projects shall be of lasting value to the community rather than completion of routine upkeep and preventive maintenance. The Troop Committee or designated subcommittee, and the District Committee must approve this project in advance of beginning any work. The Troop Committee requires that the Eagle candidate brief the Troop Committee on his project at a regularly scheduled committee meeting. The Eagle candidate must take into consideration the lead-time required for Troop and District Committee approval in planning work schedules. The brief shall outline the scope, scale and requirements of the proposed project. The committee will review the candidate's plan for completeness in planning and ability of the Troop to support the project to completion. The schedule of work should be examined in detail to ensure there are no major conflicts with other planned Troop activities. Upon completion of the service project, the Eagle candidate shall provide the Advancement Chair with a written description of the project and, where appropriate, a schedule of participants and hours worked. TROOP HEALTH AND SAFETY At Troop 432, we consider safety of each member to be very important. The health of the Scouts is very important to us as well. In order to attend activities and outings as a Troop we require a completed Class 2 medical form be filled out for every Scout every three years with a Class 1 form updated every year (the same forms required by Boy Scouts of America for camping at council camps). For high adventure, a class 3 medical form is required. The troop also keeps a copy of your insurance card to facilitate treatment in case medical care is needed. Some summer camps are now requiring the health form to be notarized. Scouting policy states that two adult leaders must be present at all Troop activities. A minimum of two adult leaders and a minimum ratio of 1 adult per 8 Scouts are required on every outing. Parents are expected to help with transportation/coordination. If adequate transportation or supervision cannot be arranged for an event, some Scouts may not be able to attend, or the event may even be cancelled. At times, the Troop will participate in activities of slightly higher risk than the average activity. For the health and safety of each member of the Troop, we will use (but not be limited to) the rules described in this booklet as a guide and the BSA Guide to Safe Scouting. The action taken to enforce these rules will depend on the infraction that occurred. Drug, Alcohol, and Tobacco Use and Abuse The Boy Scouts of America prohibits the use of alcoholic beverages and controlled substances at encampments or activities on property owned and/or operated by the Boy Scouts of America, or at any activity involving participation of youth members. This includes those boys who have parental permission to use tobacco. Any Scout guilty of using, possessing and/or distributing a controlled substance (drugs and alcohol) will be dropped from the Troop roster. Parents of the guilty Scout will be advised of all actions taken. The Scout may later be allowed to return once his problem has been resolved to the satisfaction of the Troop Committee. 17

18 We support the attitude that our young adults are better off without tobacco. The National Office of the BSA prohibits the use of tobacco products at any BSA activity involving youth participants. A BSA activity includes traveling to and from an outing when transporting any Scout other than your own son. Prescriptions The taking of prescription medication is the responsibility of the individual taking the medication and/or that individual's parent or guardian. Scheduled prescription medication should be given to the designated adult for safekeeping. The medication must be in the original prescription container and be prescribed for the scout. Driver Responsibility & Vehicle Safety Troop parents provide the transportation and the leadership for our outings. When accepting this responsibility, we ask that as a leader you do your best to be an example of good scouting and act according to the Scout Oath and Law as well as (but not limited to) the rules of this guidebook. You are a role model for our Scouts. As a driver, we demand that when you show up to drive for an outing that you and your vehicle are in good driving condition, and we will expect nothing less. We live by the motto SAFETY FIRST!! The Troop will travel to and from outings/campouts as a unit except when the Scoutmaster grants permission for alternate travel. Parent cooperation is appreciated. Any Scout who drives a vehicle to a Troop event or campout must be at least 16 years of age; possess a valid driver's license; and have his parents' or guardian's written permission. He will do so only in accordance with the provisions of the tour permit for the event. Upon reaching the destination, the Scout will park his car and leave it parked until it is time to return. He will not transport any other Scout to or from the event. The written authorization will be turned in to the Scoutmaster prior to departure. For all trips outside the North Florida Council, all drivers must be 18 years of age. Swimmers Test Troop 432 will strictly adhere to the Safe Swim Defense and the Safety Afloat guidelines as contained in the Guide to Safe Scouting. All individuals who participate in any swimming event or water sports activity must pass a swimming test approved by the BSA and North Florida Council. Scouts may be re-tested annually at the Scoutmaster s discretion. For all boating events, properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal floatation devices [PFDs] must be worn by all persons at all times. A type II or type III PFD is recommended. The leader in charge of the outing will be authorized to remove any individual from the outing who does not comply with this policy concerning PFDs. Insurance BSA provides insurance to all registered Scouts and leaders of the Troop. Any person who is not registered, as a member of the Troop will not be covered under the Council's Accident and Sickness Insurance plan. All adults providing transportation to an event must be listed on the tour permit, if any Scout other than their own son is a passenger in the vehicle. Nurturing and Supportive Environment Our goal is "Pride, Leadership, Skills for a Lifetime. At all times behavior should be respectful and a model of Scout behavior. This includes but is not limited to meetings, camp outs, or service 18

19 projects. Cussing, swearing, acting out, acting up, teasing, bullying, disrespect, unsafe acts, forcing someone to do a humiliating act or shirking of duties or responsibilities WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. It is anticipated that parents/scouts will discuss this and strive to have appropriate behavior. Everyone should be aware that the course of action could be any of the following steps depending on the situation: First offense: To be respectfully discussed one on one with the scout and the SM, ASM or other supervisory adult or with the ASM assistance, the Patrol Leader will facilitate the discussion within the patrol The offending Scout may spend time with an adult and not participate in the group's activities The offending Scout's parents will be contacted. Note: Once parent contact has been made, possible outcomes may include but is not limited to leaving the current meeting/event, missing the next event, or mandatory parent attendance at all times During all events and activities, Scouts are expected to live up to the rules established by the Boy Scouts of America, the Troop, and the leaders. In the event any Scout (or adult) does not follow these rules or threatens the health or safety of any Troop members, the leader in charge may take immediate remedial action, including but not limited to immediate suspension from that activity. If the leader in charge of an activity determines that a Scout is to be suspended from the current activity, the parent or guardian will be immediately contacted to come directly to the activity's location and pick up their son. The distance the activity is from the Scout's home will have no bearing on the determination that a Scout is to be sent home, and will not be accepted as an excuse by the parent. An individual may be reinstated either by the leader in charge of the specific event or by requesting reinstatement by the Troop Committee. Should such actions reoccur by the same Scout or adult they may be subject to permanent dismissal from the Troop upon decision by the Troop Committee. CAMP OUT GUIDELINES In the interest of the safety of all Scouts, as well as the enjoyment and successful learning experience of the Scouting program, common sense and good conduct is required at all times. It is anticipated that a Scout or adult will participate in the entire camp out. From loading the Troop trailer through the return of the Troop and unloading the trailer. If extenuating circumstances arise, where a Scout or leader will not be able to this, this should be discussed and agreed upon with the Activity coordinator. At no times should a parent remove a Scout from the event without notifying the leader. Food All food and drink that your camper will need for the weekend will be purchased by each Patrol before the campout. A designated Scout is responsible for purchasing food and supplies for the weekend. Scouts are to adhere to the approved menu prepared by his patrol. Scouts should not bring any personal stash of soft drinks, candy, or other snacks, unless instructed by the Scoutmaster or his designate. Activities Each Scout will work as a unit with his patrol. Each patrol member will be individually and collectively responsible for patrol duties and activity. At all activities, the patrol will function as a unit. Buddy System The buddy system will be used at all camping activities in addition to other activities when prescribed by the Scoutmaster. 19

20 Additional Camp Rules NO tree or fence climbing without specific leader permission NO participating in waterfront activities without proper supervision NO throwing of any objects except as part of an organized activity NO use of cutting tools (axe, knife, etc.) without successful completion of Totin Chip Training (this rule applies to Scouts and adults). In any case, saws and axes will only be used in a defined axe yard and under adult supervision NO open food left in tents (Scouts and adults) NO flame in tents (Scouts and adults) NO sheath or hunting knives or folding LOCK BLADE KNIVES with a blade over 4" (inches) long. The only exception: kitchen knives kept in the cooking area and retained in the patrol box. NO hatchets will be allowed on an outing NO bare feet are allowed except in waterfront areas, or for swimming. Closed toe shoes will be allowed for aquatic activities. At no time are open-toe shoes to be worn in the axe yard or during meal preparation NO use of matches without permission. Scouts are not to carry butane lighters or matches on their person. Compressed gas or liquid gas stoves or lanterns will only be used with knowledgeable adult supervision and in Scout facilities only where and when permitted NO aerosol insect repellant, due to the explosive nature of the contents under pressure NO fireworks or pyrotechnics NO Scout will ride on the OUTSIDE of any motor vehicle. This restriction includes hanging or riding on bumpers, in trailers, in the beds of pickups, etc NO Scouts are to walk in or through another campsite without permission of the other campers NO trash will be thrown on the ground. The campsite WILL be left as clean, or cleaner, than it was found FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE ABOVE CAMPING GUIDELINES MAY RESULT IN THE SCOUT OR ADULT NOT BEING PERMITTED TO GO ON THE NEXT CAMPING TRIP. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE The Boy Scouts of America is regionally divided into councils, each consisting of a number of districts. Troop 432 is a participating member of the Alachua District, North Florida Council. The Troop's organization consists of a Chartered Organization, a Troop Committee, the Troop, and the Troop's Parents. Chartered Organization (Sponsor) The Chartered Organization for Troop 432 is Grace United Methodist Church. The Church shares our objectives for the boys and ensures that there is adequate, trained leadership. Chartered Organization Representative acts as liaison between the Troop and the church. Troop Committee The Troop Committee is the Troop's board of directors and supports the Troop program. It ensures that quality adult leadership is recruited and trained, advises the Scoutmaster on policies relating to Boy Scouting, supports the leaders in carrying out the program, is responsible for finances, obtaining and maintaining property, ensures the troop has an outdoor program, serves on boards of review, supports the Scoutmaster in working with individual boys and problems that may affect the overall 20