Troop 622 Policy Manual Contents
I. TROOP ORGANIZATION
A. Schedule of Activities
B. Administrative Organization
1. Adult Positions
2. Assistant Scoutmasters
3. Friends of Scouting
4. Adult Training
C. Program Level Organization
D. Leadership
E. Junior Leadership Positions and Qualifications
F. Membership
G. Supervision
H. Planning
I. Insurance
II. MEETINGS
A. Troop Meetings
B. PLC Meetings
C. Patrol Meetings
D. Troop Parent Meetings
E. Courts of Honor
F. Eagle Courts of Honor
G. Assistant Scoutmaster (ASM) Meetings
III. ADVANCEMENT
A. Rank Requirements
B. Scout Skills Assessment (SSA) Review
C. Scoutmaster's Conference
D. Boards of Review
E. Merit Badges
F. Service Hours
IV. UNIFORMS
A. Troop Meeting/Travel Uniform
B. Full Dress or “Class A” Uniform
C. Troop 622 Items
V. CAMPING
A. Equipment
1. Personal Equipment
2. Troop Equipment
B. Pack Inspections
C. Permission Slips
D. Driving Credits
VI. TROOP OPERATING BUDGET
A. Dues
B. Fees
VII. FUNDRAISERS
A. Wood Sale
B. Other
VIII. ATTENDANCE
IX. DISCIPLINE
A. Inactive Scout
B. Suspended Scout
C. Inappropriate Items
D. Inappropriate Language
GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS
I. TROOP ORGANIZATION
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Troop 622 is chartered by the national office of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA)
located in Irving, Texas. It is a member troop of the San Diego - Imperial
County Council, Black Mountain District.
All troop policies and practices shall be in accordance with national program directives as implemented
at the council and district level.
A. Schedule of Activities
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The semi-annual plan of activities for Troop 622 will be set six months in
advance by the Patrol Leader Council (PLC) with the concurrence of the
Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmasters, and the Troop Parents Committee.
Activities will include but not be limited to the following:
- Weekly Troop Meetings
- Monthly Campouts
- Monthly Patrol Leader Council (PLC) Meetings
- Participation in District Events (e.g., Camporees)
- Participation in Council Events (e.g., Scout Fair)
- Semi-annual Courts of Honor (March/September)
- Annual long-term summer camp (August campout)
- Semi-annual Jr. Leader Training campouts
- Meaningful Good Turns and Service Projects
- Bi-annual Philmont Trek (if possible)
- Annual Colorado River Canoe Trip (December campout)
- Annual high adventure backpack (Havasupai, High Sierra, etc.)
B. Administrative Organization
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Troop 622 is somewhat unique in that the parents of the scouts are the sponsoring
organization, referred to as PeñaScouting. Troop Parents Meetings are
normally scheduled for the first Wednesday of every month. While the Scoutmaster,
ASM's, and scouts themselves run the program at the boy level, adequate
support by the parents is essential to Troop administration. Every December,
the Troop re-charters. At this time, each family is requested to provide
at least one parent to volunteer for an adult position for the coming
year.
1. Adult Positions
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Adult positions necessary for the administrative operation of the troop include
the following:
- Troop Committee Chairman / Assistant: responsible for all Troop administrative matters
- Secretary: responsible for taking minutes at Parents Meetings.
- Treasurer: responsible for maintaining the Troop checking account and tracking expenses.
- Transportation Coordinator: responsible for coordinating driving to and from campouts.
- Reservations Coordinator: responsible for making advance campout reservations.
- Scouting Coordinator: responsible for maintaining liaison with the council and attending monthly Roundtable Meetings.
- Events Coordinator(s): responsible for planning special events such as Courts of Honor, picnics, etc.
- Wood Sale Chairman / Committee: responsible for coordinating annual firewood sale.
- Membership Coordinator: responsible for orientation/registration of new scouts/parents.
- Advancement Coordinator: responsible for coordinating the scout advancement process including filing advancement forms at Scout Headquarters.
- Country Store Coordinator: responsible for the Troop Country Store inventory (T-shirts, hats, jackets).
- Webmaster: responsible for maintenance of Troop website
Other positions may be created and filled as circumstances warrant. It is the
responsibility of the Troop Committee Chairman to enlist volunteers for
all positions. It is the responsibility of all parents, however, to play
an active role in the scouting program at the Troop level.
2. Assistant Scoutmasters
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Any parent so desiring may register as an Assistant Scoutmaster (ASM) with
the Troop. ASM's are the backbone of the Troop and provide the Scoutmaster
with the adult support necessary to implement the program at the boy level.
Any adult registering as an ASM is expected to do the following:
- Attend weekly Troop Meetings as personal schedule permits.
- Attend monthly campouts as personal schedule permits.
- Attend New Leader Essentials and Leader-Specific Training within first year.
- Attend Youth Protection Guidelines (YPG) training within first year.
- Purchase adult scout uniform.
- Attend quarterly ASM Meetings.
3. Friends of Scouting
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All parents are encouraged to participate in the annual Desert-Pacific Council
Friends of Scouting campaign. This fund-raiser does not benefit Troop
622 directly, but provides aid to the council and supports their training
program, the operation of the service center in Balboa Park, and the operation of
both Camp Mataguay and the Youth Aquatic Center.
4. Adult Training
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The Desert-Pacific Council of the Boy Scouts of America offers a wide variety
of adult training. Troop 622 encourages all parents to take advantage
of the courses offered regardless of your position (or lack of position)
with the Troop.
a. New Leader Essentials Training
New Leader Essentials is the initial training for adult leaders.
In this 90-minute training, leaders learn about the objectives of the Scouting program and the
methods that are used to achieve these objectives. They also gain a basic understanding of youth
development, as well as how Scouting is organized and financed, policies
related to the program, and resources to help leaders succeed. The training is for all new registered adult
leaders and suggested for new Troop committee members.
b. Boy Scout Leader-Specific Training
Upon completion of New Leader Essentials, leaders
take part in leader-specific training to prepare them for the opportunities relating to their leadership
positions with Boy Scouting. Leader-specific training is also an opportunity for new leaders to get
answers to questions they may have about their roles and about BSA in general. Boy Scout leader specific
training is titled “Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster Leader Specific Training”. The training is
tailored to Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters; troop committee members and other adults who expect
to play a supportive role in the success of a troop are also encouraged to attend this training. Troop 622 requires the Scoutmaster and all ASM's to have this training. Certification is not a
prerequisite to being an ASM, however, new ASM's should complete these two training courses
within one year of signing up as an ASM (longer if circumstances warrant). Two BSA-trained adult leaders
are required on every campout.
c. Youth Protection Guidelines (YPG) Training
The Desert-Pacific Council of the BSA offers a
two-hour program on child abuse. All adults are encouraged to take this program which is offered on a monthly
basis. Troop 622 requires that the Scoutmaster and all ASM's maintain a current YPG certification. One of
the two trained adults on every campout must be YPG-certified.
d. High Adventure Leader Training (HALT)
High Adventure Leader Training (HALT) is offered by
the Desert-Pacific Council on a semi-annual basis. HALT provides instruction on backpacking and general
outdoor skills. Special Water Trek HALT programs are also provided. Troop 622 encourages the Scoutmaster
and all ASM's to take advantage of this program. HALT certification is required for the Troop to receive any High
Adventure awards (e.g., River Rat, Salty Dog, Mormon battalion, etc.). Only the tour leader must be
HALT-certified for the Troop to be eligible for the award.
e. CPR/First Aid
The American Red Cross periodically offers training in CPR and basic First
Aid. Troop 622 encourages the Scoutmaster and all ASM's to maintain current certification in CPR and First Aid.
f. Other Training
San Diego - Imperial County Council also offers other Scout related training courses including Troop Committee
Training and Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills. Troop leaders and parents are encouraged to attend these training courses.
C. Program Level Organization
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In accordance with BSA policy, and the original vision of Lord Baden-Powell,
Troop 622 will implement the "Patrol Method" for all troop activities.
The troop shall be organized by patrol as illustrated in Figure 2. The
number of patrols comprising Troop 622 will vary depending on membership.
Membership in Troop 622 will be in accordance with BSA guidelines. Boys
who reach 10 and 1/2-years of age or complete the 5th grade
are eligible to join Boy Scouts with parental consent. Parents must fill
out an official BSA application and pay the pro-rated Troop joining fee.
At least one parent from every family should register with BSA and
become a voting member of PeñaScouting; the sponsoring organization of
Troop 622.
The troop will maintain the following three types of scout patrols:
- Regular Patrols - Regular patrols consist of six to eight scouts of various ranks. Each patrol will
be headed by a Patrol Leader. Patrols are set up every six months as new leaders assume their positions. At that
time, scouts are given the opportunity to request placement in a particular patrol.
- Senior Patrol - The senior patrol will consist of all scouts 16-years old (or older) not holding
a Patrol leader position, all JASM's, and all Eagle Scouts. The SASPL is the Patrol Leader for the Senior Patrol.
- New Scout Patrol - Boys entering scouting for the first time as a group may be placed in one patrol
for orientation purposes. This New Scout Patrol will be maintained for the period of time necessary for the scouts
to be integrated into the Troop. The Troop Guide is the Patrol Leader for the New Scout Patrol.
D. Leadership
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The day-to-day operation of Troop 622's program, as it relates to the scouts,
is the responsibility of the Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters. The
Scoutmaster is appointed by, and reports to the Troop Parents Committee.
The Troop Parents Committee is responsible for the administrative operation
of the Troop and supports the Scoutmaster and the program as required.
Conduct of Troop Meetings and outings (including campouts) are the responsibility
of the boy leadership of the Troop including the Senior Patrol Leader
(SPL), Senior Assistant Senior Patrol leader (SASPL), Junior Assistant
Senior Patrol Leader (JASPL), Patrol Leaders, and Junior Assistant Scoutmasters
(JASM's); under the guidance and supervision of the Scoutmaster and ASM's.
Patrol Leaders are responsible for the behavior and well being of the
scouts in their patrols.
E. Junior Leadership Positions and Qualifications
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All Troop leadership elections and appointments are conducted on a semi-annual
basis during the months of March and September. All Troop officers must
be members of the Troop in good standing and hold the rank of 1st Class
scout or above. They must maintain a 50% or better attendance record at
Troop Meetings and monthly camp outs for the previous 12 months, and has
incurred no PLC disciplinary action in the previous 6 months. Additionally,
the SPL, SASPL, and JASPL must hold the rank of Star Scout, are 13-years
old, and have successfully completed one term as a patrol leader. The
Troop Guide must hold the rank of Star Scout and have successfully completed
one term as a patrol leader.
All candidates running for SPL and Patrol Leader must pass a review board
consisting of the Scoutmaster, two Assistant Scoutmasters, and the presiding
SPL. The board will review the job requirements of the respective position.
The SPL is elected by all members of the Troop by secret written ballot with
the chance of reelection for a second term. The first runner up in the
SPL election will be appointed Senior Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (SASPL).
The SASPL will be second in command in the Troop and will assume the job
of SPL whenever the SPL is not in attendance. The SASPL will also serve
as the Patrol Leader for the Senior Patrol. The second runner-up will
be appointed Junior Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (JASPL). The JASPL
is third in command and will be responsible for the Troop Staff. In the
event there is no consensus winner (due to the number of candidates running);
a second election will be conducted with only the top three finishers
on the ballot.
Patrol Leaders are elected by all members of the Troop by secret written ballot.
The number of Patrol Leader vacancies will determine the number of candidates
a scout may vote for (e.g., if there are 7 vacancies, a scout may vote
for 7 candidates).
The staff is appointed by the newly elected SPL, SASPL, JASPL, with the advice
and consent of the Scoutmaster. The staff will normally consist of the
following positions:
- Two Quartermasters: responsible for Troop equipment.
- Two Scribes: responsible for maintaining dues and attendance records.
- One Historian: responsible for the publication of the Troop newsletter (PeñaScouting), and Troop logs & albums.
- One Librarian: responsible for maintaining the Troop merit badge library.
- Two Instructors: responsible for teaching/testing younger scouts for advancement.
- One Junior Advancement Coordinator (JAC): responsible for coordinating Boards of Review (Tenderfoot through
Eagle)
and filing advancement/awards records.
- Two Patrol Competition Coordinators (PCC): responsible for conducting weekly inspections and tracking patrol spirit points.
- One Troop Guide (as required): responsible for orientation and advancement of new scouts.
Bugler and Chaplain Aides will be appointed by the Scoutmaster as needed. Den
Chiefs will be appointed by mutual agreement of the Scoutmaster and the
respective Cubmaster/Den leader. All staff members report to the JASPL.
All Junior Assistant Scoutmasters (JASM's) are appointed by the Scoutmaster.
Junior Leadership Training (JLT) campouts will be conducted semi-annually coincident
with the election of new leaders. These campouts are mandatory for all
newly elected/appointed leaders. New leaders will be formally recognized
at the March and September Courts of Honor but will not formally assume
their positions until after the respective JLT campout.
F. Membership
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Membership in Troop 622 will be in accordance with BSA guidelines. Boys who have
reached 10 and 1/2-years of age or who have completed the 5th grade may
join Boy Scouts with parental consent. Due to facility and camping logistics
issues, total membership in the Troop may not exceed 64 scouts unless
authorized by a special vote of the Troop Parents Committee. Younger brothers
of scouts in the troop may be admitted regardless of troop size.
At least one parent from every family should register with BSA and become
a voting member of PeñaScouting; the sponsoring organization of Troop
622 (see Article I, Paragraph B).
G. Supervision
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All scheduled Troop activities will be supervised by the Scoutmaster and/or
Assistant Scoutmasters. Parents are welcome to participate and may frequently
be requested to participate.
For campouts and other outings, a minimum of three adults is required. Two
of the adults must be registered with BSA, one as Scoutmaster or Assistant
Scoutmaster. Both of these adults must also be BSA-trained. In addition, one of the
two trained adults must have current Youth Protection Guidelines (YPG) certification
(see Article I, Paragraph B4c).
H. Planning
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The PLC, under the guidance of the Scoutmaster/Assistant Scoutmasters, will
plan campouts on a semi-annual basis. This plan will be presented at the
Troop Parents Meeting.
At each monthly PLC, a plan of activities will be established for the following
month. A monthly calendar of Troop activities will be prepared and distributed
at the beginning of each month.
I. Insurance
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Troop 622 is covered by a group medical insurance policy. The Troop Committee
Chairman will ensure that this policy is renewed as part of the annual
re-charter process. The Desert-Pacific Council also carries a blanket
liability insurance policy that is in effect for scheduled Troop activities.
II. MEETINGS
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There are various meetings associated with the scouting program that are conducted
on a routine basis.
A. Troop Meetings
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Weekly Troop Meetings will be held year 'round on Tuesday nights from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
The only regular exceptions to this schedule are the week of summer camp and the Tuesday
following Christmas (Canoe Trip). In addition, Troop Meetings will not be held if Tuesday happens
to be a holiday (e.g., 4th of July, Halloween, etc.). Scouts arriving for Troop Meetings after 7:15 PM
will not be admitted unless escorted in by a parent or with prior approval
of the Scoutmaster. Scouts are to leave the meeting room and school property
immediately after the Troop Meetings unless they have cleanup duties or
business with the Troop leaders.
B. PLC Meetings
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Patrol Leaders Council (PLC) Meetings will be held monthly, normally on the Sunday
prior to the Troop Parents Meeting. The SPL, SASPL, JASPL, Patrol Leaders,
Historian, and Troop Guide (or designated alternates) are voting members
and are required to attend. All scouts holding staff positions are non-voting
members, but are encouraged to attend. The PLC will set the agenda for
the coming month and plan all Troop Meeting activities. Twice a year,
the PLC will set the campout schedule for the next six months. The PLC
will handle disciplinary matters at the monthly meeting under the guidance
of the Scoutmaster or ASM. Special PLC Meetings can (and will) be convened
during the Troop meeting or on a campout as circumstances warrant. Special
PLC Meetings are also conducted at the close of each Jr. Leader training
campout. Any voting member of the PLC who misses two of the six monthly
meetings without arranging for an alternate will be removed from his position.
If a scout loses his leadership position for cause, all credit for the
term with regards to advancement is lost.
C. Patrol Meetings
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Patrol Meetings should be held monthly. Patrol Meetings are typically held at
the house of one of the Patrol members. These meetings can be used for
advancement, Patrol business (e.g., Patrol Box cleanup), or just for fun
(e.g., watch a movie together). The purpose of the Patrol Meeting is to
invoke a spirit of camaraderie among the boys. Patrol Leaders are encouraged
to hold a sufficient number of Patrol Meetings in order to qualify for
the Baden-Powell Award.
D. Troop Parent Meetings
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Troop Parent Meetings (also known as Troop Committee Meetings) are held monthly,
normally on the first Wednesday at 7:30 PM. The meetings are held at the homes of
the Troop parents on a rotating basis. Parents will be notified of the
location and date via the Troop e-mail list. All parents registered with the BSA are voting members. Regardless
of registration status, all parents are encouraged to attend. The purpose
of the Troop Parents Meeting is to provide the parents with a status report
on a regular basis. Topics typically include a report on recent Troop
activities and a review of coming events. Attendance at these meeting
is the best way to keep informed of what's going on in the Troop and to
participate in its operation.
E. Courts of Honor
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Courts of Honor are held twice a year in March and September. The March Court
of Honor marks the Troop's birthday and is normally a potluck dinner.
The September Court of Honor is normally a potluck dessert. Courts of
Honor are formal occasions and scouts are required to wear full dress
uniforms. Courts of Honor are used to formally recognize the achievements
of all scouts in the Troop for the past six months. Despite the fact that
scouts may already have received an award at a Troop Meeting, they are
still recognized for their achievement at the Court of Honor. Awards presented
at Courts of Honor include merit badges, rank advancement, and special
awards (i.e., council patches). The March Court of Honor also recognizes
outstanding attendance at Troop Meetings and campouts as well as Scout
of the Year.
F. Eagle Courts of Honor
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Eagle Courts of Honor are convened on an as required basis to accommodate those
scouts advancing to the rank of Eagle. Eagle Courts of Honor are very
special and all members of the Troop are strongly encouraged to attend
in full dress uniform.
G. Assistant Scoutmaster (ASM) Meetings
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Assistant Scoutmaster (ASM) Meetings will be held at least quarterly to provide
all ASM's an opportunity to get together and discuss Troop operations.
ASM Meetings are normally held at the home of one of the ASM's on a rotating
basis. ASM Meetings will be held more often as circumstances warrant.
III. ADVANCEMENT
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Advancement will be in accordance with BSA National Policy and
standard Troop 622 practices. Boys registered with Troop 622 are expected to
be active participants in the scouting program. They must advance at least one
rank per year or, if a Life Scout, earn at least three merit badges per year.
More rapid advancement is encouraged but not required.
A. Rank Requirements
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To sign off requirements for Tenderfoot through First Class (but not the award itself),
the scout must be a holder of that rank or higher and a member of the PLC. Whenever possible,
advancement should be signed off by the individual scout's Patrol Leader. The Patrol Leader,
with the concurrence of the Senior Patrol Leader (SPL), may designate a member of the PLC to
counsel the rank requirements. The rank itself may only be signed off by the Scoutmaster
(SM) or an Assistant Scoutmaster (ASM). Before advancing in rank, a scout must have a
Scoutmaster's Conference, a Board of Review, and for the ranks of Tenderfoot through First Class;
a Scout Skills Assessment review. The scout is responsible for arranging his own Scout Skills
Assessment Review and Scoutmaster's Conference through the Junior Advancement Chairman (JAC). These
reviews and conferences should be arranged one week in advance of the proposed review date and no
later than the beginning of the Troop Meeting. The scout's Patrol Leader will ensure that he is ready
for the Scout Skills Assessment Review. After verifying the scout has achieved the necessary rank requirements,
the scout’s Patrol Leader will forward his concurrence to the JAC. The scout’s Patrol Leader will also
present him to the members of the Scout Skills Assessment review. For the ranks of Tenderfoot
through Eagle, the scout is responsible for arranging his own Board of Review with the Parent Committee
member responsible for coordinating Board of Reviews. All Boards of Review must be arranged one week
in advance. Scouts need to be in full dress uniform (including a merit badge sash) for all Boards of Review.
|
Rank |
Scout Skills Assessment (SSA) Review Required/Scheduling Responsibility
|
Scoutmaster’s Conference Required/ Scheduling Responsibility
|
Board of Review Required/ Scheduling Responsibility
|
|
Tenderfoot
|
Yes / Scout through JAC
|
Yes – Immediately after SSA Review / Scout through JAC
|
Yes / Scout through Parent Committee Member
|
|
Second Class
|
Yes / Scout through JAC
|
Yes - Immediately after SSA Review / Scout through JAC
|
Yes / Scout through Parent Committee Member
|
|
First Class
|
Yes / Scout through JAC
|
Yes - Immediately after SSA Review / Scout through JAC
|
Yes / Scout through Parent Committee Member
|
|
Star
|
No |
Yes - Scout through JAC
|
Yes / Scout through Parent Committee Member
|
|
Life
|
No |
Yes - Scout through JAC
|
Yes / Scout through Parent Committee Member
|
|
Eagle
|
No |
Yes - Scout through JAC
|
Yes / Scout through Parent Committee Member
|
|
Eagle Palm
|
No |
Yes - Scout through JAC
|
Yes / Scout through Parent Committee Member
|
A scout is not permitted to advance more than one rank at a time despite the concurrent completion of requirements.
Per the Boy Scout Handbook requirements, a scout must be an active member of the Troop before advancing in rank.
The time requirement is measured from the date of his last Board of Review. Refer to the following table for the
active member period for each rank.
Minimum Time Requirement as Active Scout in Current Rank before Advancing to Next Rank
| Current Rank |
Next Rank |
Minimum Time |
| First Class |
Star |
4 Months |
| Star |
Life |
6 Months |
| Life |
Eagle |
6 Months |
| Eagle |
Eagle Bronze Palm |
3 Months |
| Eagle Bronze Palm |
Eagle Gold Palm |
3 Months |
| Eagle Gold Palm |
Eagle Silver Palm |
3 Months |
The following items provide additional guidance to Patrol Leaders, Troop Instructors,
the Junior Advancement Coordinator (JAC) and the Troop Guide regarding
rank advancement:
- Requirements for Tenderfoot through First Class must be signed off in the scout's handbook
within 30 days of completing the requirement.
- Patrol Leaders will instruct individual members of their patrols (and anyone
else assigned by the SPL) and initial in the scout's handbook that the
particular skill has been mastered and the scout is ready for testing
by a Troop Instructor or the Troop Guide.
- Troop Instructors and/or the Troop Guide will review and spot check the accomplishment
of the various requirements associated with the Tenderfoot through First
Class ranks. All requirements, unless signed by the Scoutmaster or an
ASM, must be countersigned by the Troop Instructor or Troop Guide.
- The Scout Spirit requirement associated with each rank can only be signed
by the Scoutmaster or an ASM.
- Merit Badges may be entered by the individual scout. Verification of merit badges
will be made during the Scoutmaster's Conference.
- All portions of the rank section of the scout's handbook (except Scout Spirit)
must be signed off and dated prior to the Scoutmaster's Conference. It
is the responsibility of the Patrol Leader to ensure the scout is prepared,
in the correct uniform, and the handbook completed prior to the conference.
When a scout advances to the rank of First Class Scout, he will receive a letter
of congratulations from the Troop Committee Chairman. This letter will
also serve to advise him of his increased responsibility to the leadership
of the Troop. Separate congratulatory letters will also be presented to
scouts as they achieve the rank of Star and Life. These letters will be
addressed to reflect the different responsibilities and expectations associated
with each rank.
B. Scout Skills Assessment (SSA) Review
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Scout Skills Assessment Reviews are required for the ranks of Tenderfoot through First Class.
The individual scout must arrange for his own Scout Skills Assessment review through the JAC.
It is the responsibility of the boy’s patrol leader to concur with any rank advancement.
After the patrol leader concurs by validating that all rank requirements have been met, he
needs to approach the JAC, who has the responsibility of coordinating the skills reviews
with the appropriate Assistant Scoutmaster(s).
The JAC should contact the responsible ASM no later than the Troop meeting prior to the scheduled
Scout Skills Review. All Scout Skills Assessment Reviews shall consist of three members of the Troop,
including one ASM and two senior scouts (senior to the scout being reviewed).
C. Scoutmaster's Conference
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A Scoutmaster's Conference is required for all rank advancement. Scouts need to arrange their
own conferences by approaching the JAC, who has the responsibility of coordinating the conferences
with the Scoutmaster. Advance notification (one week) is recommended to ensure that the appropriate
number of ASM's is available.
For Tenderfoot through First Class, the conference can occur immediately preceding the Scout Skills
Assessment review with the Scoutmaster or any ASM (time permitting) or at a later time or date.
For Star through Life, the conference will be conducted by three adult leaders (Scoutmaster and
two ASM's or three ASM’s). For Eagle, the conference will be conducted by the Scoutmaster and two ASM's.
This is to ensure a fair review of a scout's qualifications and achievements.
D. Boards of Review
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A Board of Review is required of all scouts advancing in rank. The individual scout must arrange for
his own Board of Review. For all ranks, Boards of Review are conducted at prearranged Troop Meetings.
The Board of Review Troop meeting schedule will be determined by the Parent Committee member responsible
for coordinating Board of Reviews.
After the scout has completed a successful Scout Skills Review (Tenderfoot through First Class) and a
Scoutmaster’s Conference (all ranks), he needs to schedule his Board of Review with the appropriate Parent
Committee member responsible for Board of Reviews. The scout should contact the responsible adult
no later than the Troop meeting prior to the scheduled Board of Review.
All Boards of Review shall consist of three adult members of the Troop (i.e., parents). The Scoutmaster cannot
be a member of any Board of Review. Use of ASM's to staff Boards of Review is discouraged but not prohibited.
A scout must wear his full dress uniform (Including merit badge sash) for all Boards of Review . For the rank
of Eagle, a scout must also pass a Board of Review conducted by the San Diego-Imperial County Council of the BSA.
This board will automatically be scheduled by the Council upon receipt of a scout's Eagle application. Scouts
need to wear their full dress uniform, including merit badge sash, and be accompanied by the Scoutmaster or an ASM.
E. Merit Badges
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Merit badges are earned by scouts on an individual basis. New scouts (Tenderfoot through 2nd Class) are
usually preoccupied with rank advancement requirements and defer earning of merit badges for summer camp.
Older scouts (1st Class and above) need to earn merit badges to advance in rank. While summer camp offers
the best opportunity to earn merit badges, the boys are encouraged to work on them all year through. Troop
622 will normally conduct six or seven merit badge classes during the course of the year. These classes are
held during the advancement period of the weekly Troop Meetings and normally consist of four, one-half hour sessions.
Scouts may also work on merit badges at home, with other boys in the Troop, or by patrol.
When a scout begins working on a merit badge, he should obtain a blue card from the Scoutmaster or an ASM. He should fill out the
administrative portions and have it signed by the Scoutmaster/ASM. Upon completing all requirements of a merit badge,
he will be tested by a council approved merit badge counselor. The merit badge counselor is the only person authorized
to sign off on a blue card. Scouts are responsible for contacting a merit badge counselor and arranging for an interview.
The Troop maintains a list of all San Diego-Imperial County Council merit badge counselors. Scouts who need
to review this list should see the Scoutmaster or any ASM during the weekly Troop Meeting. Parents are discouraged
from acting as merit badge counselors for their own sons.
Once a blue card is signed by the counselor, the scout should turn in the appropriate portion to the Junior Advancement Coordinator (JAC).
The merit badge will normally be awarded at the next Troop Meeting. Merit badges earned at summer camp are presented at the Fall Court of Honor.
F. Service Hours
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Some ranks require scouts to participate in a service project. The Troop will normally offer the opportunity to
earn service hours during the course of the year. One recurring opportunity is to work on another scout's Eagle Project.
Community service is applicable to the scouting program and a scout can earn hours outside the Troop by participating in an approved
project. The project must be approved in advance by the SM or an ASM.
All service hours must be recorded on a service hour form available from the SM (or ASM). The form needs to be completed by the
participating scout and signed by the adult responsible for the project (or by the Eagle candidate). The scout should enter the
hours for the respective rank in his Scout Handbook. The SM (or ASM) will initial the Scout Handbook when accompanied by the
service hour form. Once entered and initialed in the Scout Handbook, the service hour should be kept for future reference
(save with "Blue Card" receipts).
IV. UNIFORMS
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Boy Scouts is a uniformed organization. Wearing the appropriate uniform is
an important part of scouting and helps promote scout spirit and a feeling
of camaraderie. Troop 622 recognizes two different variations on the basic
scout uniform. These variations and when they apply are discussed below.
A. Troop Meeting/Travel Uniform
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The Troop Meeting/Travel Uniform consists of the official scout shirt (with
appropriate insignia), Troop hat (or official scout hat), pants with belt
loops, and an official scout belt. This uniform is worn to all weekly
Troop Meetings, and when traveling to and from campouts and other activities
requiring driving. For weekly Troop Meetings, the hat is an optional uniform
item.
Scouts not in the appropriate uniform may be asked to leave the Troop Meeting.
Scouts not in the appropriate uniform for campouts may be prohibited from
camping.
B. Full Dress or “Class A” Uniform
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The Full Dress or “Class A” Uniform consists of the official scout shirt (with
insignia), Troop Hat (or official scout hat), Troop neckerchief and slide,
official scout trousers or shorts, official scout belt, scout socks, and
merit badge sash as appropriate. The Full Dress Uniform is worn for Courts
of Honor, Eagle Courts of Honor, Boards of Review, and
when traveling to and from Summer Camp. All scouts must have a complete
uniform within six months of joining the Troop. Periodic inspections will
be conducted to ensure compliance with Troop uniform standards.
The uniform requirements for a particular Troop activity may be amended by
the Scoutmaster as circumstances warrant.
C. Troop 622 Items
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The Troop maintains an inventory of Troop hats, T-shirts and jackets available
for purchase. Troop T-shirts (or official scout T-shirts) are required
to be worn on all campouts. Troop jackets are recommended uniform items
but are not required. The jackets are red lined-windbreakers that are
rain-resistant. They are good year-round jackets that are suitable for
most outdoor activities. These items are available in the Troop Country
Store. Order forms are available from the Scoutmaster or Country Store
Coordinator.
V. CAMPING
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The purpose of the monthly overnight camping experience is to promote Boy
Scout activities. Non-Boy Scout participants (e.g., guests/friends, siblings,
etc.) must have the prior approval of the Scoutmaster (or Assistant Scoutmaster
in charge of that particular campout).
A minimum of three adults is required on each campout. Two of the adults
must be registered with BSA, one as Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster.
Both of these adults must also be BSA-trained. In addition, one of the
two trained adults must have current Youth Protection Guidelines (YPG)
certification.
There will normally be one campout each month with the exception of March and
September when an additional Leadership Training campout will be conducted.
The August campout will be a long-term summer camp, typically at an official
BSA staffed camp. Summer camp is normally planned for mid-August. The
December campout will usually be a 5 to 6 day canoe trip down the Colorado
River during the period 26 through 31 December.
Monthly campouts are planned six months in advance by the PLC. During any given
year, the Troop will endeavor to plan two to three backpacks, one being
at high altitude, and seven to eight car campouts. Car campouts will normally
include at least one beach campout and one amusement park campout (Disneyland,
Knott's Berry Farm, & Universal Studios).
The Troop departs for most campouts from the Black Mountain Middle School
(BMMS) parking lot at 6:00 PM on Friday evenings and returns at about 12 Noon
on Sunday (unless otherwise specified in the permission
slip). The cost of the campout is the amount stated on the permission
slip. There will be no pro-rated fees for scouts or adults who cannot
attend for the entire period. Permission slips will be distributed two
weeks prior to the campout at the Troop Meeting. They must be returned
at the beginning of the next Troop Meeting with a check for the specified
amount (DO NOT FILL IN A NAME). For families with more than one active
scout, separate checks are required. A separate check (with the name left
blank) is also needed for any adult attending the campout. Boys may also
use their Wood Sale Account to pay for campouts.
Adults are always welcome on campouts. In fact, the Troop encourages every parent
to attend at least one or two campouts each year. This includes Moms as
well as Dads. Siblings may attend with prior approval of the Scoutmaster
(or ASM in charge of the campout). Attendance by siblings, however, is
not encouraged.
There will be two distinct sleeping areas on all campouts (to whatever extent
possible). One is designated for unaccompanied scouts, the second for
adults (including parents/sons). No unaccompanied scouts will be allowed
to camp in the adult area. The two areas will be segregated from each
other but will remain sufficiently close to one another so as to be in
line of sight.
In accordance with Youth Protection Guidelines (see
Article I, Paragraph
B4b), scouts may only share a tent with an adult that is an immediate
member of the family (e.g., Mom, Dad, Uncle, older Brother, etc.).
When departing for campouts, all scouts must be in the approved Travel Uniform.
This uniform consists of:
- Official scout shirt (khaki) with appropriate insignia
- Pants with belt loops
- Official scout belt
- Troop Hat (or official BSA hat)
Scouts not in the appropriate uniform will have to acquire the missing items
in order to attend. During the campout, scouts must wear Troop T-shirts
(or scouting related T-shirts) unless otherwise directed due to the nature
of the campout. Only Troop Hats (or official BSA hats) will be allowed
on campouts. Exceptions will be made for special campouts where shade
hats are more appropriate (e.g., beach campouts and backpacks). Stocking
caps (required backpack item) may be worn on campouts in the evening or
when weather conditions dictate.
Walkman radios are permitted on campouts. Their use, however, is restricted to
evenings when a scout is in his sleeping bag: earphones only, no external
speakers.
When returning from a campout, all scouts must return to BMMS to help with
the stowage of Troop gear. No scouts will be dismissed until all the gear
is properly stowed. Only the Scoutmaster (or ASM in charge of the campout)
is authorized to dismiss the scouts at the end of a campout.
A. Equipment
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Scout equipment is divided between those items provided for and maintained by
the Troop, and those items each scout is expected to purchase and bring
on each campout.
1. Personal Equipment
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Each scout is expected to have the necessary personal equipment to camp safely
with the Troop. A list of required personal gear is given to each scout
joining the Troop. This Pack List should be kept in his backpack and used
to periodically inventory his equipment. Periodic pack inspections are
conducted to ensure that each scout has all required items on the Pack
List.
The Troop does not own tents. Scouts should purchase their own tents. During
the winter months (rainy season) scouts will not be allowed to camp unless
they bring a tent or arrange ahead of time to share a tent with another
scout.
Backpacks are required items on the official Troop Pack List. A new scout, however,
may attend car campouts without a backpack as long as he has all the other
gear on the Pack List. When purchasing
new equipment, parents are encouraged to talk with the ASM's if they are
unsure what to purchase. Quality backpacks and sleeping bags are critical
camping items.
2. Troop Equipment
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The Troop has an extensive inventory of equipment that is assigned on a patrol
basis. Each patrol is assigned a patrol box at the beginning of each leadership
term that contains all the gear necessary for outdoor cooking (stove,
pots, pans, utensils, etc.). Propane lanterns and tanks are also available
for each patrol. The Troop also has backpacking equipment including portable
stoves and lanterns. Backpacking equipment is not assigned to patrols
but distributed as campouts warrant. All Troop equipment (with the exception
of the propane tanks) is stored in an equipment shed located at
Black Mountain Middle School. Propane tanks and liquid fuels are assigned to
the Patrol Leaders and are kept at their homes.
Additional equipment and replacement equipment will be periodically purchased as
needed upon request of the Scoutmaster and Quartermaster Advisors (ASM's)
and with the approval of the Troop Parents Committee.
Scouts are responsible for the proper loading and stowage of Troop equipment
at the beginning and end of each campout. All scouts are required to muster
back at BMMS at the end of each campout in order to help unload Troop
equipment and ensure its proper storage. Scouts are not dismissed from
campouts until the Troop gear is properly stored in the shed and the Scoutmaster
(or ASM in charge) has given permission for dismissal to the SPL (or acting
SPL).
B. Pack Inspections
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A list of items needed on each campout is provided to every scout. Scouts
are required to have these items in their backpacks for every campout
unless otherwise instructed. Mandatory Pack Inspections will be conducted
annually for all scouts below the rank of Eagle. These inspections will
be conducted by the Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters. Scouts not
passing the inspection will not be allowed to camp until they pass a re-inspection.
C. Permission Slips
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Permission slips for all Troop activities will be distributed at the Troop meeting
approximately two weeks prior to the scheduled activity. They must be
completed and returned at the beginning of the following Troop Meeting.
If a scout does not submit a permission slip he will not be able to attend
the activity.
Before departing for the campout, each scout will be given his permission slip
to be retained on their person for the duration of the activity.
Permission slips will be color-coded to denote the status of each family's driving
credit account (see Article V Paragraph D). The colors denote the following:
| Green: |
Parents do not have to drive on this campout. |
| Yellow: |
Driving status is tenuous. Parents do not have to drive on
this campout, but must drive on the next campout their son attends. |
| Red: |
Driving status is mandatory. Parents must drive on this
campout, or their son will not be allowed to attend. |
| Blue: |
No driving credit. Scouts are to arrange their own
transportation. Carpools are encouraged. |
Parents are encouraged to plan ahead so they don't get caught with a red slip
when they can't drive. Parents with a green slip may drive if they so
desire.
D. Driving Credits
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Transportation to and from campouts and other activities will be provided by the parents.
With few exceptions, transportation will be on a non-reimbursable basis.
The only exceptions are the Canoe Trip and Philmont Treks. If sufficient transportation
assistance cannot be arranged, the activity may be canceled. For the monthly
campouts, the troop will coordinate transportation using the driving credit
system. This system awards credits to each adult who drives to and/or
from a campout on the following basis:
| One credit per way: |
If the campsite is less than 25 miles or 30 minutes away from BMMS |
| Two credits per way: |
If the campsite is more than 25 miles (but less than 100 miles) or
30 minutes (but less than 2 hours) away from BMMS. |
| Three credits per way: |
If the campsite is more than 100 miles or 2 hours away from BMMS. |
Every family is awarded one credit upon joining the troop. One credit will be
deducted for each monthly campout whether a boy camps or not. The credit
associated with each campout will be noted on the permission slip. Credit
will only be given to parents who drive as part of the coordinated transportation
effort.
All drivers must possess a valid driver’s license. Drivers must be at least
21-years of age in order to transport scouts. Those between the ages of
18 and 20 may transport Troop equipment only. Scouts between the ages
of 16 and 17 (with valid driver’s licenses) may drive themselves but will
receive no credit. The Troop discourages the practice of scouts driving
themselves.
VI. TROOP OPERATING BUDGET
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The Troop Treasurer is responsible for developing a yearly budget in concert
with the Scoutmaster and the Committee Chairman. The budget will address
all sources of anticipated income as well as expected expenses. Once drawn
up, the budget must be reviewed and approved by the Troop Parents Committee
prior to implementation. The Treasurer will track ongoing Troop income/expenses
during the course of the year to ensure compliance with the budget. The
treasurer will make monthly reports at the Parents Meeting.
Major sources of income for Troop 622 include weekly dues, annual re-charter
fees, camping fees, etc. These topics are addressed below.
A. Dues
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Dues are established by the Troop Parents Committee and collected weekly at
each Troop Meeting. Dues are used
to fund Troop activities and provide a learning experience for the scout
who has now accepted an obligation that he must meet. Scouts are responsible
for payment of dues even though they may not attend all Troop Meetings.
A record of dues paid is maintained by the Troop Scribes under the guidance
of the Scribe Advisor (an ASM). The Scribe Advisor audits the dues records
on a regular basis. If a scout falls behind in his dues by more than one
month, the money will automatically be deducted from his Wood Sale Account.
If there are insufficient funds in his Wood Sale Account, his name will
be presented to the PLC for discussion and possible disciplinary action.
Dues may be paid by check (made payable to BSA Troop 622), cash, or by deduction
from a scout's Wood Sale Account.
Scouts achieving the rank of Eagle do not have to pay dues.
B. Fees
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Each scout is assessed an initial joining fee upon joining the Troop. This
fee covers registration, insurance, a Boy's Life subscription, Troop neckerchief
and slide, uniform insignia and a Troop application surcharge. Portions
of this fee are pro-rated based upon the joining month.
An annual re-charter fee is assessed each December. This fee is used to maintain
registration with BSA, medical insurance and one Boy's Life subscription
per family. The majority of the fee is deposited in the Troop General
Fund and is used to cover Troop operating costs for the year. Re-charter
fees and weekly dues fees are reviewed and re-assessed by the Parents
Committee annually.
Camping fees are assessed for each campout and collected by the scout's patrol.
This fee covers the cost of food for the campout. Camping fees are non-refundable
once the food for the patrol has been purchased. The Troop occasionally
undertakes special campouts where additional fees are required. Examples
include admission fees (e.g., Disneyland), and
special transportation fees (e.g., Mt. San Jacinto Tram). These fees are
normally refundable. Exceptions include those instances where advance
tickets have been purchased.
VII. FUNDRAISERS
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The Troop will conduct periodic fundraisers during the course of the year.
Fundraisers provide the scouts with an opportunity to earn money to offset
some of the expenses of the program. They also provide supplemental income
for the Troop.
A. Wood Sale
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Troop 622 sponsors an annual fundraising event known as the Wood Sale. For this
fundraiser, the Troop purchases firewood at a wholesale price and sells
it at fair market value. Scouts generate the sales and help in the delivery.
Based on profits and total hours worked, a dollar-per-hour calculation
is determined. The profits are then allocated to a special Troop Wood
Sale Account. Then, each scout receives a pro-rate allocation of the overall
account based on the number of hours he worked, how much wood he sold,
and other factors set by the Wood Sale Committee. A scout may use the
money in his account to support scout functions (dues, camping fees, etc.)
or to purchase scout-related equipment. For equipment purchases, the scout
must buy the desired equipment and present a receipt for reimbursement
to the Troop. Any scout may review the current balance in the account
by asking the Scoutmaster or any ASM at a weekly Troop Meeting. The Scoutmaster
is the final authority on what constitutes a valid Wood Sale Account expense.
It is important to understand the money in the Troop Wood Sale Account belongs
to the Troop and is merely allocated to a scout based on his level of
participation in the Wood Sale. If a scout leaves the Troop, the money
reverts back to the Troop General Fund. If a departing scout has a brother
in the Troop, the money will be transferred to the bother's account.
Should a scout enter a delinquent state with regards to dues or other fees (e.g.,
Summer Camp fees), the money owed will be automatically deducted from
his allocation of the Troop Wood Sale Account.
B. Other
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Periodically, the Troop may engage in other fundraising events. This may include but
will not be limited to the sale of tickets for the Annual Scout Fair.
By vote of the Parents Committee, money generated from these events may
either be allocated to the Troop General Fund or to the scouts for deposit
into their woodsale accounts.
VIII. ATTENDANCE
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Good attendance at Troop Meetings and campouts is essential to a successful
scouting program. A scout's attendance record will be reviewed at the
time of his advancement (Star and above) as a component of his Scout Spirit.
The Troop requires that each scout maintain a minimum yearly attendance
of 33.3% for both weekly Troop Meetings and monthly campouts. Additionally,
scouts cannot have three consecutive absences or miss three consecutive
campouts (see Article IX, Paragraph A).
If a scout cannot attend a Troop Meeting, he should phone his Patrol Leader.
Scouts in staff positions who cannot attend a Troop Meeting should also
phone their alternate (e.g., second Scribe) and the JASPL. Patrol Leaders
should contact their Assistant as well as the SPL.
The two scouts with the best attendance record at troop meetings and the most
nights camping for the calendar year, will receive an award at the March
Court of Honor.
IX. DISCIPLINE
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Scouts not meeting minimal advancement/attendance requirements may face counseling
and/or disciplinary action. Scouts not exhibiting proper behavior are
also subject to disciplinary action. These scouts may be placed on the
Inactive List or face suspension from the Troop.
Any scout who is inactive or suspended cannot attend weekly Troop Meetings,
monthly campouts, Patrol Meetings, or any special events including Eagle
Projects,
Courts of Honor, etc. If inactivity or suspension extends through the Troop re-charter
period, the scout must re-charter and meet all financial obligations in
order to be considered for resuming an active status in the Troop.
A. Inactive Scout
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A scout will be considered for placement on the Inactive List by the Scoutmaster
for one of the following reasons:
- Missing three consecutive Troop Meetings
- Missing three consecutive monthly campouts
- Falling behind in dues in excess of one month or more
- Failing to meet minimal advancement requirements
When considering action for one of the above, the Scoutmaster has four courses
of action:
- No action - matter dismissed
- Place scout on the Inactive List for one to three months with automatic reinstatement
- Place scout on the Inactive List for one to three months with mandatory appearance
before the Scoutmaster for reinstatement
- Place scout on six months probation
Scouts placed on the Inactive List for (a) through (d) above will be contacted
by their Patrol Leaders following the Scoutmaster decision.
Scouts may also request voluntary placement on the Inactive List due to outside
commitments (e.g., school sports, band, etc.). Placement on the Inactive
List will be for a period of time not less than one month and not to exceed
three months. Scouts requesting voluntary placement on the Inactive List
must do so in writing using the Inactive Status Request Form (available
from the Scoutmaster). Eagle Scouts are exempt from items (a) through
(d) above.
An Inactive Scout is defined as follows: Scout is registered in the Troop
but cannot participate in Troop activities for a stated period of time.
This scout is not a discipline problem.
All inactive scouts must pay back dues upon resuming an active status. Exceptions
are those scouts who voluntarily requested placement on the inactive list
for personal reasons.
B. Suspended Scout
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Suspension is a disciplinary action. A scout may be suspended for breaking Troop
rules, being disruptive at meetings/campouts, or for exhibiting conduct
contradictory to the Scout Law. Guidelines for suspension are as follows:
| SPL: | May suspend a scout for one meeting |
| JASM: | May suspend a scout for up to two meetings |
| ASM: | May suspend a scout for up to one month |
| PLC: | May suspend a scout for up to three months |
| SM: | May suspend a scout indefinitely |
A Suspended Scout is defined as follows: Scout is not behaving at the meetings/campouts
and is suspended from normal Troop activities for a stated period of time
In order for a suspended scout to return to the Troop, he must meet in conference
with the Scoutmaster or an Assistant Scoutmaster, the person who suspended
him, and one of his parents. If the suspension was handed down by the
PLC, the scout and his parent must come to a PLC Meeting. A suspended
scout must also pay back dues before resuming an active status with the
Troop.
C. Inappropriate Items
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Any scout, who brings inappropriate items to any scouting function of the
Troop, will have those items appropriated by an adult leader and held
until they can be returned to the parents of the scout. Examples of inappropriate
items include non-regulation hats, radios (other than Walkman-type with
earphones), electronic games, skateboards, etc. Cigarette lighters are
considered forbidden items. Any scout discovered in possession of a cigarette
lighter will face disciplinary action.
D. Inappropriate Language
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Inappropriate language is not and cannot be a part of Scouting. The use of vulgar words
and phrases violates the spirit of the Scout Law. If a scout is identified
as using foul language, he will be counseled by the Scoutmaster or an ASM. Repeated offenses will result in disciplinary action by the PLC.
Such action may include suspension from the Troop. The Scoutmaster and
or ASM's will enforce this policy and be the final judge as to whether
language is inappropriate or not.
GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS
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| ASM |
Assistant Scoutmaster |
| Blue Card |
Merit badge application card |
| BMMS |
Black Mountain Middle School |
| BSA |
Boy Scouts of America |
| HALT |
High Adventure Leader Training |
| JAC |
Junior Advancement Coordinator |
| JASM |
Junior Assistant Scoutmaster |
| JASPL |
Junior Assistant Senior Patrol Leader |
| JLT |
Junior Leader Training |
| OA |
Order of the Arrow |
| PCC |
Patrol Competition Coordinator |
| PLC |
Patrol Leader Council |
| SASPL |
Senior Assistant Senior Patrol Leader |
| SM |
Scoutmaster |
| SPL |
Senior Patrol Leader |
| SSH |
Sunset Hills (Elementary School) |
| YPG |
Youth Protection Guidelines |
© 2003, 2004, 2005 Peñascouting
Last update: April 2005