Introduction Boy Scouts of America Troop 366 Panama City, FL Troop Policies & Guidelines as adopted by the Troop Committee This Guidebook is for the use of the parents and Scouts of BSA Troop 366. It describes specific Troop 366 policies and guidelines that will make your Scouting experience more fulfilling and rewarding. It is vital that parents review the contents of this guidebook with their Scout(s) to ensure that they understand and commit to keeping the values and expectations of Troop 366. Mission Statement To provide a positive Scouting experience for every boy in the Troop by actively supporting a boy-led program that strives to Build character and moral strength Foster leadership and citizenship Develop physical, mental and emotional fitness Live by the Scout Law and Oath Objective The purpose of Troop 366 is to provide a year-round safe, healthful and enriching Boy Scout program to its members. This is done under the auspices of the National and Local Councils of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) and as articulated in the BSA Guide to Safe Scouting. Troop 366 believes in the principles of a boy-led and boy-managed program that uses adult supervision and direction as effectively needed to safely attain those goals. Equally important, Troop 366 adheres to the policies, principles, programs and concepts of the Boy Scouts of America. It is the objective of Troop 366 to make the Scouting program available to all boys of proper age, regardless of their financial, residential, physical, racial or religious status. This will be done to the extent permissible by the financial and physical constraints, restrictions and limitations of the Troop. The Troop Committee and the Troop s adult leadership are charged with doing all things necessary to accomplish these goals. Affiliation Troop 366 is chartered by Messiah Lutheran Church ELCA, 3701 W. Hwy 390., Panama City, Florida 32405. The Troop is operated in accordance with the By-Laws, as adopted by the Troop, of the Boy Scouts of America. Scout Organization The Troop s leadership is comprised of two components - Scouts and Scouters (Adults). Scouts run the day-to-day operations of the Troop consistent with the principles of a boy-led program. The Scouters oversee the operations of the Troop and ensure adequate resources are available to sustain the Troop. Troop Elections, Appointments and Terms of Office Troop elections are held twice a year for the following positions: Assistant Senior Patrol Leader; Patrol Leader; Librarian; Historian; Quartermaster and Scribe. A Scout must be First Class or above and have been active in the Troop for six mouths to be eligible for election. A Scout must serve first as a Patrol Leader (PL) to be eligible to run for Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL). The elected ASPL will become the SPL once the troop election is held.
Troop Guides, Instructor(s) and other appointed leadership positions necessary for Troop operation are selected and appointed by the Scoutmaster, as needed. In addition, the Scoutmaster selects Troop Guides for the First Class Emphasis (FCE) program. The Scoutmaster will consult with the FCE Coordinator (or Troop Committee if no FCE Coordinator is in place) regarding the FCE Troop Guide appointments. Terms of office are six months. A Scout may not hold more than one elected leadership position at a time. Also, a Scout may not hold the same position for consecutive terms unless the Scoutmaster determines special circumstances exist that necessitate a Scout to serve a consecutive term. Should an elected/appointed leader resign his position or be removed from his position prior to completion of his term; he shall forfeit his leadership credit. Within Troop 366, each Scout will be a member of a small team of boys called a Patrol. All boys are assigned to a Patrol within the Troop. The Patrol is the heart of the Scouting experience. In the Patrol setting Scouts learn to relate to others, discover common goals, make decisions, carry out group plans, grow with peer leadership and meet Scouting s aims of fitness, character and leadership development. The Patrol works together as a unit. The Patrol system is used to give real responsibility to as many boys as possible in an environment of fun, learning and companionship. A trained adult serves as an Advisor to each Patrol, but will intervene only when necessary. The Senior Patrol Leader, a Scout who is elected by the Scouts as ASPL prior to assuming the SPL position, leads the Scout organization. The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader is elected by Scouts to assist the Senior Patrol Leader. Patrol Leaders are elected by Scouts to lead their respective Patrols. The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader and Patrol Leaders support the Senior Patrol Leader.
Troop 366 Scout Organization Scoutmaster (Adult Leadership) Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) (Elected by Scouts first as an ASPL) Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (Elected by Scouts) Assistant Scoutmasters (Adult Leadership) Patrol Leaders (Elected By Patrol Members) The Patrol Leader organizes and manages Patrol activities. Selecting from Scouts within the Patrol, the Patrol Leader appoints an Assistant Patrol Leader and, as necessary, a Patrol Grubmaster (Food), Quartermaster (Equipment) and Scribe (Records). The Senior Patrol Leader represents all of the Scouts as the junior leader in the Troop. With the guidance of the Scoutmaster, he provides leadership by planning the Troop Program and activities and conducting Troop meetings. The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader acts as the SPL when the SPL is unavailable or when called upon by the Scoutmaster. The boys of the Troop elect the Troop Quartermaster. The Troop Quartermaster keeps track of the Troop s equipment and sees that it is in good working order. He works closely with the Troop s Adult Equipment Coordinator to ensure the proper care, repair and replacement of all Troop and Patrol equipment. The boys of the Troop also elect the Troop Scribe. The Scribe records the activities of the Patrol Leaders Council (PLC), maintains the Troop mailbox, keeps a record of Scout attendance at Troop meetings, outings and functions and maintains service hour records. The Patrol Leaders, Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Quartermaster, Scribe and the Scoutmaster are members of the Troop s Patrol Leadership Council (PLC). The PLC meets monthly to discuss how the Troop is operating and plan all the activities of the Troop.
Troop 366 Patrol Leadership Council (PLC) Scoutmaster Assistant Scoutmasters Senior Patrol Leader Assistant Senior Patrol Leader Patrol Leaders Troop Quartermaster Troop Scribe Youth leadership positions are either elected by the Troop or Patrol or are appointed by the Scoutmaster, SPL or Patrol Leader. Those who are elected or appointed to leadership positions generally serve 6- month terms. Office Elected or Appointed Term Senior Patrol Leader (SPL} Elected by Troop as ASPL 6 months Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL) Elected by Troop 6 months Troop Quartermaster Elected by Troop 6 months Troop Scribe Elected by Troop 6 months Troop Guide Appointed by Scoutmaster 6 months Troop Chaplain Aid Appointed by Scoutmaster 6 months Troop Librarian Elected by Troop 6 months Troop Historian Elected by Troop 6 months Troop Musician Appointed by Scoutmaster 6 months Troop Bugler Appointed by Scoutmaster 6 months Junior Assistant Scoutmaster Appointed by Scoutmaster 1 year Den Chief Appointed by Scoutmaster 1 year Instructor Appointed by Scoutmaster 6 months Order of the Arrow (OA) Troop Representative Appointed by Scoutmaster 6 months Patrol Leader Elected by Patrol 6 months Assistant Patrol Leader* Appointed by Patrol Leader 6 months Patrol Quartermaster* Elected by Patrol 6 months Patrol Grubmaster* Elected by Patrol 6 months Patrol Scribe* Elected by Patrol 6 months (* Note: Only Patrol Leader in the Patrol organization qualifies for leadership credit.) Scouter Organization The Troop s Scouters support the day-to-day operations of the Troop and manage the business of the Troop. The Scoutmaster and his/her Assistant Scoutmasters are the ones who are primarily responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations of the Troop. The Troop s Committee appoints the Scoutmaster. The Scoutmaster appoints the Troop s Assistant Scoutmasters. The Troop s Committee is comprised of the adults of the Troop and is the governing body ultimately responsible for the Troop. The Troop Committee Chairman, elected by the Troop Committee, is responsible for managing all the business functions of the Troop and oversees its organization.
Troop Membership Qualifications To be eligible for membership in Troop 366 a boy must be: 10 ½ years old and have completed the fifth grade OR 10 years old and received the Arrow of Light Award OR 11 years of age or older, but not have reached the age of 18. Membership may be limited, as needed, due to financial and/or capacity constraints being experienced by the Troop. Applications All applications for consideration for Scout and Adult membership with Troop 366 must be submitted to the Scoutmaster or Troop Committee Chairman, as appropriate. Upon approval of the fully completed application for membership, membership will commence upon payment, in full, of all required Troop fees. Troop members in good standing are eligible for BSA insurance coverage. Terminations Troop membership will terminate, as follows: For Scouts - Upon the full execution of a BSA unit transfer form submitted to the Scoutmaster or Committee Chairman Upon notification to the Troop Membership Coordinator of his intention to terminate his membership Upon failure to re-register with the Troop for the upcoming year Upon attaining the age of eighteen (18). For Adults - Upon the request of the Troop Committee to resign for reasons of repeated delinquency of performance of assigned tasks, inappropriate conduct in the presence of, or involving, Scouts or other good cause. The affected adult member shall be given notice of the proposed action and advance notice of the time, date and place of the meeting where the matter will be reviewed and discussed. The affected adult member may submit a defense to the proposed termination in person, in writing or by an authorized representative. A two-thirds vote of those members of the Troop Committee present (personally or by written, signed and dated proxy) at any regularly scheduled Troop Committee meeting is required for all involuntary adult membership terminations. An adult member may also terminate his/her membership upon resignation, transfer, failure to reregister or termination of the Scout member s participation in the Troop. In the event of the termination of an adult member, the Troop Committee may, but is not required to, reinstate that adult s membership in the Troop on such terms as the Troop Committee considers just and proper.
Uniform Policy Troop 366 is a Field Uniform (Class A) Troop. That means each Scout is required to wear the Field (Class A) uniform when attending all Troop 366 and/or BSA functions. All trained Adult leaders are also expected to abide by this requirement. Scouts and Scouters must wear the Class A uniform at all times while traveling to and from scouting events of any kind. The Scoutmaster or Adult Leader(s) in charge of an event may designate the uniform as Utility (Class B or otherwise), when special circumstances arise, such as when camping, participating in service projects, etc. Field Uniform BSA tan shirt (tucked in at all times) with proper and up to date Troop numerals (i.e. 366), red epaulettes, U.S. Flag, purple International patch, Gulf Coast Council patch, Troop badge of office, badge of rank, patrol emblem, Quality Unit patch, Arrow of Light patch and any other Troop approved patches for which the Scout or Scouter qualifies, appropriately attached per the BSA Scout Handbook. BSA shorts or long pants (properly sized)* BSA green web belt (properly sized) with BSA belt buckle* BSA green Scout socks must be worn at all times with BSA shorts and at Troop meetings and ceremonies.* Hiking boots are required as part of the uniform. (dark color, no white shoes) BSA Troop 366 neckerchief and neckerchief slide. Adults and Junior Assistant Scoutmasters may wear any BSA approved neckerchief/bob tie. Troop 366 approved nametag BSA Scout caps and hats are encouraged for sun protection on outings, but are not mandatory. On outings, weather appropriate headwear, other than BSA caps and hats may be worn subject to Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster approval. Merit Badge sashes are to be worn at all Courts of Honor, Boards of Review and other ceremonies and events designated by the Troop Committee, Scoutmaster or SPL. The only exception to this rule would be when an Order of the Arrow (OA) sash is being worn. Utility Uniform Troop 366 t-shirt or other approved t-shirt suitable for the occasion. (Troop 366 t-shirts are available for purchase from the Troop.) BSA shorts or pants (properly sized)* BSA green web belt (properly sized) with BSA belt buckle* BSA green Scout socks must be worn at all times with BSA shorts* Hiking boots are required as part of the uniform. (dark color, no white shoes) * Required for Fist Class Scouts Uniform inspections are held periodically to encourage all Scouts to correct deficiencies in a timely manner. Event Type Uniform Requirements Regular Troop Meeting Field uniform Regular Troop Meeting During the Summer Utility uniform Special Guest Troop Meeting Field uniform Board of Review Field uniform Court of Honor Field uniform Public Event Field uniform Travel To/From Outing Field uniform Scout-O-Rama Field uniform Service Projects Field or Utility uniform, as designated During Camping Events Utility uniform, as designated
Rank Advancement Advancement through the Scout ranks and recognition for achievement are two key parts of Troop 366 s program. The Troop s goal is to provide each Scout with the opportunity to learn the skills needed to advance. The FCE program is the first step in that process. Each Scout must take personal responsibility for applying the skills learned, having their requirements signed off and taking the initiative to pursue their individual course of advancement. The ranks and requirements to advance are described, in detail, in the Boy Scout Handbook. The steps generally involved in rank advancement include: Scout attends Troop functions Scout completes the requirements for the various ranks included in the Boy Scout Handbook. Scout secures the appropriate signatures in his Boy Scout Handbook as the rank advancement requirements are completed. Scout personally requests and participates in a Scoutmaster Conference upon the completion of all the requirements for the next rank. Scout personally requests (Troop Advancement Chairman) and participates in a Board of Review after successfully completing his Scoutmaster Conference. Scout advances to his new rank after successful completion of the Board of Review. The new rank patch will be issued to the Scout as soon as possible, typically at the next scheduled weekly Troop meeting. The Rank Advancement card will be issued at the Troop s next quarterly Court of Honor. The Leadership Ranks After First Class rank, advancement requirements concentrate on developing and demonstrating leadership skills, completing service projects and earning Merit Badges. Twelve specific Merit Badges are required for attaining Eagle Scout rank. Each of the two lower leadership ranks, Star and Life, require some portion of those twelve Merit Badges to be completed. Specifically, Star rank requires the Scout to earn six Merit Badges, four of which must be Eagle required; Life rank requires the Scout to earn five more Merit Badges, three of which must be Eagle required. The Troop provides the opportunities for advancement, but it is always the Scout s responsibility to take the initiative to learn, master and demonstrate proficiency in all of the skills needed for advancement to the next rank. Fulfilling Scout Advancement Requirements The Scout uses his Boy Scout Handbook to keep track of his progress through the ranks. One section of the Handbook lists the requirements for the specific Scout ranks. Another section of the Handbook contains discussions of the skills and knowledge that is needed to fulfill the advancement requirements. Parental support in the advancement process is key to the progress a Scout makes. Parents may not sign-off on any of their son s rank advancement requirements. Participation Scouts are required to be active in the Troop and his Patrol. This means, regular attendance at Troop meetings and Troop activities is expected. It also means that the Scout is expected to help his Patrol in such things as Patrol Corners, on outings and camping trips and in District competitions. Skills All advancements will require learning and demonstrating proficiency in skills of some sort. For the lower ranks, the necessary skills are listed, in detail, in the Boy Scout Handbook. The higher ranks require the earning of Merit Badges. Skill proficiency alone does not guarantee advancement. Scout Spirit, participation, leadership and service will additionally measure a Scout s progress at this level. Leadership
Upon mastering the scouting skills ranks and attaining First Class rank, the Troop and the younger Scouts will look to the Scout for help, guidance and leadership. The leadership requirement is the same for advancement to Star, Life and Eagle ranks, the only difference being the length of time the Scout must hold a leadership position. Typically, the Scout and the Scoutmaster at the Scout s most recent Scoutmaster Conference will discuss and agree on the Scout s leadership goals and what will be needed in order for the Scout to advance to the next rank. Eligible leadership positions include: Senior Patrol Leader Troop Librarian Assistant Senior Patrol Leader Troop Quartermaster Troop Chaplain Aid Troop Scribe Den Chief Troop Guide Troop Instructor Patrol Leader Junior Assistant Scoutmaster Service Projects Star and Life rank levels contain specific requirements for the numbers of hours and types of projects that must be completed. A Scout s Eagle Project is also a service project the Scout must individually design, organize and implement. The Scoutmaster will determine if the Scout has completed the leadership requirement for each rank. Scout Spirit All ranks, except Tenderfoot, require that the Scout demonstrate Scout Spirit by living according to the Scout Oath and Law. Meeting Scout spirit expectations also depends on the Scout s participation in Troop and Patrol activities. Perfect attendance is not required. Finally, older Scouts are required to set an example for others in terms of enthusiasm, attitude, uniform and supportive participation. The Scoutmaster, at the Scoutmaster s Conference, determines fulfillment, by the Scout, of this advancement requirement. Scoutmaster s Conference The Scout personally requests the Scoutmaster s Conference once he has completed the requirements for advancement. The purpose of the conference is to allow the Scoutmaster or a designated Assistant Scoutmaster to meet with the Scout and review his progress, get better acquainted with the Scout, talk about the Scout s role in the Troop, review the Scout s skills learned and set realistic goals for the Scout s advancement to the next rank. Board of Review The Board of Review is personally requested by the Scout of the Troop s Advancement Chairman once the Scout has successfully completed his Scoutmaster s Conference. This is the last step in the rank advancement process. The Board of Review is a meeting between the Scout and a group of adults from the Troop. The Scout must be in his Class A uniform with his Merit Badge sash and Boy Scout Handbook. The adults on the Board of Review sit down with the Scout to talk about the Scout s experience in working on the rank being sought. The friendly discussion gives the adults a good idea of whether the Scout has mastered the requirements for the rank. The Scout is not re-tested on any of the rank requirements, but is instead asked to talk about how he learned the skills, what challenges he may have encountered, etc. Once the Scout has completed all the rank advancement requirements, successfully completed his Scoutmaster Conference and Board of Review he will be informed that he has achieved the rank being sought. A Board of Review can also be convened for a Scout who has had no rank advancement for an extended period of time. The purpose of this type of Board of Review is to inquire about the problems the Scout may be having and to offer appropriate encouragement and support.
Court of Honor The Scout officially advances in rank at the successful completion of the Board of Review. He will generally receive his new rank badge at the next regularly scheduled weekly Troop meeting. The Scout will receive the rank advancement certificate and/or card at a Court of Honor. The Court of Honor ceremony formally recognizes the achievement of all the members of the Troop, who have advanced in rank, completed Merit Badges, won awards or otherwise distinguished themselves since the Troop s last Court of Honor. Courts of Honor are usually held four times a year. Individual Eagle Courts of Honor are held on the occasion of a Scout attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. Merit Badges Earning Merit Badges is required in order to advance to the ranks of Star, Life and Eagle. Approximately 120 Merit Badges are offered by BSA, covering a wide range of topics. They are aimed at helping a boy to broaden his horizons, learn new skills and discover new interests, hobbies or career opportunities. Merit Badges may only be earned with the guidance of an approved Merit Badge Counselor for the particular Merit Badge being sought. The Troop s Advancement Chairman has the most recent listing of approved Merit Badge Counselors within the Lake Sands District. If a Scout wishes to work on a Merit Badge, he must do the following: Request and obtain a signed blue Merit Badge (MB) card from the Scoutmaster or designated Assistant Scoutmaster, thereby making the Scout eligible for completion of the Merit Badge requirements Complete the part of the blue card that asks for personal information Ask the Troop s Advancement Chairman for the official listing of Merit Badge Counselors for the Lake Sands District. MB Counselors may be from Troop 366. Get a copy of the most recent copy of the appropriate MB pamphlet from the Scout Shop or the Troop Librarian. Study the subject matter of the pamphlet and the requirements needed to meet in order to qualify for completion of the MB. Contact one of the official MB counselors on the list and make an appointment to meet with the MB counselor. Boys should try to work on Merit Badges in pairs in order to avoid potential Youth Protection issues. Complete the requirements included in the MB pamphlet, making as many appointments and visits with the MB Counselor as necessary to satisfy the MB counselor that the Scout has met all the requirements Secure the MB Counselor s signature on the blue MB card The MB Counselor retains one portion of the card and gives the remaining two portions to the Scout Submit the completed and signed two portions of the blue MB card to that Troop s Advancement Chairman.
Business Finances and Assessments Each Scout s fund is assessed an annual registration fee which includes the National BSA registration and a subscription to Boy s Life magazine. If there are two or more Scouts in a family registered in Troop 366, the family is only expected to pay for one Boy s Life magazine subscription. The fees are collected on an annual basis between November 15th and December 15th and are not normally pro-rated monthly for membership terms less than a year. One adult member of each Scout s family/guardian is encouraged to become a registered active member of the Troop Committee and is assessed and annual fee for that membership. The fee is collectible at the initial registration and/or re-registration of the Scout and prior to Troop 366 re-chartering. The costs of all camping events and other outings is charged and paid for by the Scout on a per outing basis. Troop 366 wants all the boys to participate in all the outings they are interested in and for which they are qualified. Troop 366 does not require participation in all events and does not assess the Scouts families for events in which their boy elects not to participate. The Troop costs of all camping and other Troop 366 outings are generally budgeted at the beginning of the year. A projection of Troop costs is prepared by the adult assigned to plan the outing and is submitted to the Troop Treasurer or his/her designee and is approved by the Committee Chairman or his/her designee before a permission slip is issued to the Scout members of the Troop. Troop 366 operates on a budget basis. The Troop Treasurer, in conjunction with the Committee Chairman, and such others who may be assigned by the Committee Chairman, prepare a completed budget in July each year for the Troop Committee to review and approve. All funds received by Troop 366 are deposited into a general bank account. The Committee Chairman and either the Troop Treasurer, the Advancement Chairman or the Chartered Organization Representative sign all checks drawn against this account. The new proposed budget for consideration by the Troop Committee is presented annually at the first Troop Committee meeting of July. Any additional discussion necessary to obtain Troop Committee approval for the proposed budget will continue at each regularly scheduled Troop Committee meeting (or if necessary, at any specially noticed meetings of the Troop Committee as might be necessary) until the budget is approved by a simple majority of the Troop Committee members present. The Troop Treasurer presents a report and accounting of the expenditures of Troop 366 and/or others designated by the Committee Chairman on a quarterly basis at the regularly scheduled October, January, and April Troop Committee meetings. Any approved out-of-pocket Troop expenses incurred by an adult may be reimbursed by the Troop Treasurer with Committee Chairman approval, upon receipt of a written request for reimbursement and a proof of purchase. The Troop Treasurer must receive requests for reimbursement within 30 days of the expenditure. The Troop pays for all rank advancement pins and patches, position patches, merit badges and camping and hiking awards. Troop 366 also provides one t-shirt to all new Scouts and registered adult leaders. Troop 366 is not responsible for the following expenses: Scout outing fees, uniforms, Boy Scout Handbooks, merit badge books, extra event patches, Order of the Arrow patches and sashes and adult training fees. Each Scout in Troop 366 will be assessed dues on a annual basis, in an amount approved by a simple majority of the Troop Committee members in attendance at the regularly scheduled Troop Committee meeting addressing dues. The assessment of dues may be suspended or resumed at the discretion of the Troop Committee by a simple majority of the Troop Committee members in attendance at a regularly scheduled Troop Committee meeting.
It is Troop 366 s goal that no boy be excluded from participation in the Scouting program because of a family s financial situation. Camperships (i.e., financial grants) are available upon request by a parent, subject to availability of budgeted funds and the existing requirements established by the Troop Committee. A parent, the Committee Chairman or his/her designee may request a campership from the Gulf Coast Council when Troop camperships are not available. Fundraising (Money Earning) Activities All Troop 366 money-earning projects comply with BSA policy. They must be pre-approved by the Gulf Coast Council. Any money earning projects conducted are targeted at raising funds sufficient to meet the annual operating expenses of the Troop. The Scouts should run the projects. Any surplus funds raised are allocated to the annual budget, as needed. Scout Program Code of Conduct (Troop 366 Conduct and Discipline Policy is attached) Scoutmaster s Rules of Conduct: Scouts will always respect other Scouts and their families. Fighting, hitting, harassing or causing harm in any way is out of character with Scouting and will not be tolerated Scouts will always address any adult at all Scout functions and activities as: Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss or Dr. Scouts will always treat the flag with the greatest of care and respect and be absolutely respectful during the Pledge of Allegiance Scouts will always treat equipment and facilities (e.g., Messiah Lutheran Church) in a responsible and careful manner Discipline Issues The guidelines for acceptable behavior of a Scout are contained in the Scout Oath and Law as presented in the Boy Scout Handbook. Initially, where possible, situations suggesting or requiring discipline of boys are sought to be resolved by the Troop s Scout leadership, including the Senior Patrol Leader and other members of the Patrol Leadership Council. In those instances where the Scout leadership is unable to resolve disciplinary problems, health or safety issues are involved and/or as perceived necessary by the Scoutmaster, or other adult, the Adult Leader shall immediately intervene and take disciplinary action, as appropriate. The Troop has adopted Troop Conduct and Discipline Policy outlining disciplinary procedure. It is the intent of the adult leadership of the Troop that individual adults, other than those specified above, shall not become involved in Scout discipline unless asked by the Scoutmaster, other adult designated in charge of a particular event or outing, the Scout leadership or where health or safety issues mandate immediate action/intervention. Issues regarding disciplinary problems with Scouts and/or untimely inappropriate disciplinary actions by adults must be reported to the Scoutmaster or the Troop Committee Chairman, who will take action, as appropriate. Those conduct issues, which cannot be resolved by the Scoutmaster, or Committee Chair will (if found to be appropriate by the Committee Chairman) be brought to the attention of the Troop Committee.
Drugs, Alcohol, Tobacco and Unapproved Items It is BSA policy, supported by Troop 366, that the use of alcoholic beverages and controlled substances (adult supervised administration of prescription medication excepted) is not permitted at: Encampments or activities on property owned and/or operated by the Boy Scouts of America, or Activities involving participation of Troop 366 youth members BSA recommends that adult leaders maintain an attitude that young adults are much better off without tobacco products of any kind. Troop 366 adult leaders are not to use tobacco products in the presence/view of any Troop 366 youth members. Unapproved items, such as soda, candy; radios, televisions, video games, tape players, walkie-talkies and other electronic equipment are not to be used during Troop 366 activities. These items may be used, at the discretion of the adult member, when traveling to/from Troop 366 activities. Knives and axes not in conformance with BSA requirements as well as lighters are prohibited from use at Troop 366 activities. Meetings Troop Meetings Troop meetings are regularly held on Tuesday evenings generally from 6:30 PM until 8:00PM at facilities designated by the Troop Committee. Scouts are expected to attend the weekly Troop meetings (i.e., FCE and/or regular Troop meetings) regularly, in full designated uniform, and bring their Boy Scout Handbook with paper/note cards and pen/pencil. Patrol Leadership Council (PLC) members must bring notebooks, pen/pencil and calendars to meetings and outings. Troop meetings must be conducted and managed, to the extent practicable, by the Senior Patrol Leader (SPL), his designees and the other members of the Patrol Leadership Council. Patrol Meetings Patrols must meet either as directed by the Patrol Leadership Council or as the individual Patrols, when and where agreed upon by the Patrol members, might call meetings. The goal for each patrol is to hold one Patrol meeting each month. The purpose/goal of the Patrol meeting can be for most anything related to Scouting, including teambuilding. A minimum of two adults (one of whom may be a parent of the household at which the meeting is conducted and one of whom is a trained Troop adult leader) must attend and monitor all Patrol meetings. However, the boy leadership of such Patrols and/or other boy leadership who might attend must conduct and manage Patrol meetings. Patrol Leadership Council (PLC) Meetings The Patrol Leadership Council meets monthly, at a minimum, when and where designated by the Senior Patrol Leader in conjunction with the Scoutmaster. Meetings are for planning and implementing troop meetings, outdoor activities and service projects included in the Troop s calendar by the PLC and the Troop Committee. PLC meetings must, at least, be attended by the Scoutmaster (an Assistant Scoutmaster may substitute) and at least one other adult. The PLC and/or Scoutmaster may invite any Scouts or adults to attend and participate in the PLC meeting who is involved in the planning and/or implementation of upcoming meetings, outings or other events.
Patrol Leadership Council (PLC) members include: Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) Assistant Senior Patrol Leaders (ASPL) Patrol Leaders Troop Quartermaster (if invited, but has no vote) Troop Scribe Troop Librarian (if invited, but has no vote) Troop Historian (if invited, but has no vote) Troop Guides (if invited, but has/have no vote) Assistant Patrol Leaders (if invited, but has/have no vote unless representing the Patrol Leader) The general responsibilities of youth leaders, including the members of the Patrol Leadership Council and other select positions of responsibility are outlined in the Troop Junior Leadership Job Descriptions and the BSA Junior Leader Handbook. Courts of Honor Courts of Honor are held four times each year. This is the most meaningful time to gather as a Scouting family. Rank advancements are awarded; as are merit badges, certificates and other awards earned by the Scouts and recognize Scouts, Scouters and parents for special contributions and achievements. All parents/guardians should make every effort to attend Courts of Honor. Parents/guardians are personally involved in all rank advancement ceremonies. Eagle Court of Honor The ultimate accomplishment in Scouting is attaining the Eagle rank. Upon notification that a member of Troop 366 has officially attained the Eagle rank, the Troop will sponsor an Eagle Court of Honor and will honor the Scout with: Eagle Badge and Related Pins Eagle Neckerchief and Slide National Eagle Scout Association Membership Outings Scouts must attend at least 50 percent of monthly meetings and the Troop meeting immediately prior to the upcoming Troop outing or they may not be allowed to participate in the upcoming outing. If special circumstances exist, arrangements to miss the Troop meeting(s) may be made with the Senior Patrol Leader and the Scoutmaster provided the Scout speaks with the Scoutmaster prior to the meeting(s). Excuse validity is jointly determined by the Senior Patrol Leader and the Scoutmaster. Monthly and Other Camping Experiences It is Troop 366 s policy to provide its boy members with at least one outdoor camping or similar activity each month. The nature and location of these outings must be determined by the PLC at its annual planning session held in July. When developing its plan, the PLC must give consideration to outdoor events provided by or though Lake Sands District of Gulf Coast Council or other Boy Scout organizations. The PLC must revise its annual outing plan, as necessary, during the mid-year planning review session conducted each year in the summer. Adult members of the Troop Committee will be asked or appointed to take the lead in planning the outings, with PLC assistance, but those adults need not attend the outings they plan.
Long-Term (Summer) Camps It is Troop 366 s intent to make available to each boy member at least one long-term camping experience each year. This may involve the Troop s attendance at a BSA council owned and operated camp, a Troop planned and conducted long-term backpack or similar event or such other long-term outdoor experiences the Troop PLC and/or Troop Committee members may plan. Attendance at these outings is limited to registered boy members of the Troop. In that adult attendance at these events is typically limited, adult participation must be at the request and/or direction of the Scoutmaster. It is expected that each Scout will attend at least one long-term camp experience each year. High Adventure Outings The Troop has access to Scouters who are BSA High Adventure Trained (HAT) who supervise various High Adventure outings throughout the year. For these purposes, we define High Adventure as a multiday (i.e., more than four days) special wilderness outing that the Scouts will aspire to. These outings usually emphasize survival skills and teamwork and are targeted for older Scouts who have attained a particular rank, have earned specific merit badges and are typically thirteen (13) or older. These outings will typically minimally require that the participating Scouts have certain skills and/or Merit Badges in order to qualify. Adult Troop Officers and Leaders Troop Committee - Governing Body The Troop Committee is the governing body of the Troop. The Troop Committee consists of, at least, one parent/guardian from each family of each boy member of the Troop. The management of the Troop Committee is primarily comprised of the following three positions: Committee Chairman Charter Organization Representative Treasurer The Committee Chairman, with the concurrence of the Executive Committee, can from time to time designate individual members of the Troop Committee to fulfill specific functions and responsibilities as outlined in the Troop Organization Chart (attached) and/or as deemed necessary to conduct and manage the Scout program. Refer to the Troop Leadership Job Descriptions attachment for specific duties and responsibilities for each of these positions. Elections and Terms of Office The Committee Chairman is elected by the Troop Committee and holds the office at the pleasure of the Troop Committee until he/she resigns or a replacement is voted into office. Troop elections take place at any regularly scheduled meeting of the Troop Committee or at a specially called meeting of the Troop Committee as deemed appropriate by the Troop Committee or the Committee Chairman. At least one verbal notice of any proposed election must be given to the members of the Troop Committee a minimum of two weeks prior to the proposed election. The verbal notice can either be given at a regularly scheduled Troop Committee meeting or by notice given via the Troop s Phone Tree and/or e-mail. Election to the position of Committee Chairman is by a simple majority of those current Committee members present at the time of the properly called election. The Scoutmaster is not a voting member of the Troop Committee and the Committee Chairman will only cast his/her vote in the event of a tie vote.
The duties of Committee Chair include, but are not limited to, the following: Preside over all Troop Committee meetings Serve as Chief Executive Officer of the Troop Committee Supervise and be responsible for the performance of, and have the power to appoint and remove, all persons holding Troop Committee positions Assure the existence and maintenance of a Troop operating budget Appoint the Scoutmaster Selection Committee and serve as the Chairman of the Committee with regard to the selection of candidates for consideration for selection as Scoutmaster Serve as the immediate supervisor of the Scoutmaster and assure his/her faithful and proper performance of the duties and responsibilities of that position Enforce the rules of the Troop Recommend adult leader recognition (e.g., Extra Miler Award, District Award of Merit, Silver Beaver Award, Scouter Keys, Order of the Arrow, etc.) All other positions of management or function within the Troop are held by appointment by the Committee Chairman with the concurrence of the Executive Committee. All appointed persons hold those positions at the pleasure of the Committee Chairman and/or the Troop Committee as a whole. Positions of Assistant Scoutmaster or other adult positions involved in conducting and managing the Scout program, as distinguished from the organizational, financial and logistical support of the Troop, are appointed by the Scoutmaster, as approved by the Committee Chairman and the Executive Committee. Candidates for Assistant Scoutmaster (including those who have reached the age of 18, but are not yet 21) must complete Youth Protection Training and Scout Adult Leader Training prior to being appointed. Dissatisfaction or concern by any member of the Troop Committee with the performance of the Scoutmaster, any Assistant Scoutmaster or other adult filling an appointed position must first be brought to the attention of the Committee Chairman. If the Committee Chairman cannot resolve the performance issue, he/she will bring the issue to the attention of the Executive Committee and ultimately to the Troop Committee, if necessary. Responsibilities Troop Committee The Troop Committee is responsible for the following: Support of the Scout advancement program Ensure a minimum of two deep leadership at all meetings, outings or other events participated in by the Troop s Scouts Confirm the appointment of the Scoutmaster with a simple majority vote, following the same notice and terms provided for election of the Committee Chairman Acquisition and maintenance of Troop equipment and other assets Fundraising, financial management and record keeping pertaining to the assets of the Troop Recruitment Procure and sustain a sponsor for the Troop and facilities necessary for the conduct of its meetings, outings and programs Support of outdoor programs Assist the Scouts and Scoutmaster in identifying suitable community service projects as prescribed by Boys Scouts of America National Policy Review and revise the Troop rules, as necessary. Troop rule revision approval requires a 66% vote consisting of not less than 50% of Troop Committee members, including the Committee Chair.
In conjunction with those individuals designated by the Scoutmaster to provide adult leadership on specific Troop outings (i.e. Asst. Scoutmasters, Point of Contact (POC), etc.), the Troop Committee assures that: All local and national BSA tour permits are completed, submitted and obtained Transportation and equipment necessary for a successful outing is available and coordinated That sufficient adult supervision is provided, given the nature of the event That adult leaders have attended training appropriate for the event Executive Committee The Executive Committee is a working/planning group for the Troop Committee and acts on behalf of the Troop Committee in the execution of Troop Committee policy and the formation and execution of both short and long-term goals of the Troop. The Executive Committee is comprised of the Committee Chairman, the Scoutmaster, designated Assistant Scoutmasters, the Troop Treasurer and other parents who express an interest and are approved by the Committee Chairman, in consultation with the Scoutmaster. Any Troop parent, not a member of the Executive Committee, may attend Executive Committee meetings for informational purposes, but may not vote. The Executive Committee reports its activities to the Troop Committee and seeks the Troop Committee s approval for any proposed policy or activity changes The Executive Committee sends a Troop representative to the District Roundtable every month. The Scoutmaster is a voting member of the Executive Committee, but the Committee Chairman only votes in the event of a tie. Training At least one parent/guardian from each Scout member s family must complete and sustain Scout Adult Leader Training and the BSA Youth Protection Training certification. Completion of this training is expected within the first year of the Scout s membership in the Troop. All registered adults must attend Youth Protection Training and must remain current in the training in Youth Protection. All adults are encouraged to participate in as many additional Scout-related training sessions as position. The Advancement Chairman is responsible for maintaining all Troop Advancement records and forwarding appropriate documents to the Gulf Coast Council when due. Meetings The Troop Committee and the Troop Executive Committee meet on the last Wednesday of each month at 7:00 PM at such facility(ies) designated by the Committee Chairman or at such other times, dates and locations designated in advance by the Committee Chairman. Order of Business The order of business, generally, for the regularly scheduled Troop Committee meetings is as follows: Call To Order Scoutmaster s Comments Treasurer s Report Sub-Committee Reports Unfinished Business New Business Closing
Advancement The Troop follows the advancement guidelines described in the BSA Boy Scout Handbook. Participation in a Board of Review is required for all rank advancements above Scout. Boards of Review are comprised of at least three but not more than six members of the Troop Committee (in special cases it may be desirable to have the Senior Patrol Leader as a member). The Scoutmaster and the Advancement Chairman may not be Board of Review members. Any parent/guardian of the Board of Review candidate may not participate as a member of his Board of Review. The First Class Emphasis Coordinator may not participate as a member of the Board of Review for FCE s striking for Tenderfoot, Second Class or First Class ranks. All service hours for advancement credit must be pre-approved by the Scoutmaster prior to being performed. Eagle Scout service projects must be pre-approved by the Scoutmaster, the Troop Committee and the Gulf Coast Council. Troop 366 follows the merit badge guidelines in the BSA Boy Scout Handbook. Merit badge blue cards must be obtained from the Advancement Chairman and signed by the Scoutmaster prior to a Scout beginning work on a merit badge. In all cases, the Scoutmaster has final approval authority. The Advancement Chairman maintains and makes available to the Scouts a current listing of BSA approved merit badge counselors. It is the Scout s responsibility to contact an approved merit badge counselor of their choice after obtaining a Scoutmaster signed merit badge blue card. Upon completion of the merit badge requirements, the Scout gives the completed merit badge blue card to the Advancement Chairman. First Class Emphasis Program First year Scouts work with designated Assistant Scoutmasters and boy leaders in the First Class Emphasis Program until they obtain their First Class rank. Advancement to ranks above First Class is monitored by the Scoutmaster, designated Assistant Scoutmaster(s), the 1St Class to Life Scout Advisor and designated senior Scouts. Each Scout must demonstrate his mastery of required Scout skills to the appropriate designated leader/mentor (other than his parent/guardian) before he can be signed off for that skill. Miscellaneous Public Record Each member of the Troop Committee has, upon reasonable request and at times mutually convenient to the Committee Chairman, the Treasurer and the inquirer, the right to inspect the books of account and other written records of the Troop. However, the identity of Scout families receiving campership funds and/or amounts thereof, under no circumstances, may be made public to anyone other than the Treasurer, the Committee Chairman and the Scoutmaster. Annual Fiscal Report Within sixty days following the conclusion of the Troop s fiscal year (calendar year), at a regularly scheduled Troop Committee meeting, the Treasurer or such other person appointed by the Committee Chairman presents a written report of the last fiscal year s profit and loss, balance sheet and budget for the upcoming year.
General Guidelines The Troop adheres to the BSA guidelines found in the BSA Health and Safety Guide The Troop supplies tents, stoves, lanterns, ground cloths, cook boxes, patrol utensils and fuel for all scheduled outings. The equipment is assigned to the Patrols equally and each Patrol is held accountable for the equipment given to them. Patrols are expected to pay all repair and replacement costs for any lost or damaged equipment. Specialized equipment not provided by the Troop may have to be supplied by the Scouts. The Outdoor Essentials listed in the BSA Scout Handbook are mandatory personal items for all outings, unless otherwise directed (e.g., matches in major fire zones). The signature of the Troop s Charter Organization Representative, the Committee Chairman and the. Scoutmaster holding these positions at the time of the Troop Committee approval and acceptance of this Guidance denotes their acceptance and implementation by the Troop Committee. By: Charter Organization Representative dated: By: Troop Committee Chairman dated: By: Scoutmaster dated: Attachments: BSA Guide to Safe Scouting Troop 366 Organization Chart Troop 366 Youth Leadership Job Descriptions Troop 366 Adult Leadership Job Descriptions Troop 366 Conduct and Discipline Policy Troop 366 Resource Surveys Troop 366 Vehicle & Driver Information Troop 366 Informed Consent Agreement