I got the following feedback/question last night from a parent.
“Is my Scout supposed to be using the info in these emails & posts to work on badges?”
Let me take a few moments to explain. Our SM & Troop Committee Chair may want to add their comments. Below are my thoughts and understandings of the Scout system.
#1 The Scout Handbook and the Merit Badge pamphlets are the sources for ALL advancement. A Scout &/or Scout Leader may not deviate, change, or alter those requirements with only 2 exceptions.
First exception: This is due to the current CoVid-19 that we are in. National BSA and the local councils have some discretion in changing those stated requirements.
Second exception: This is due to a Scout that is “challenged” either mentally or physically. If this occurs then a parent and leader conference is in order. I have also run these requirement changes past my council DE when the situation required me to change the requirements.
#2 There is no mandatory way to advance through the Scout program. Example: If a Scout wants to pass off all of his knots in one session; I am OK with that. Note: The Scout may not pass First Class before he/she completes Second Class.
#3 My personal objective is to put as much information and skills into a Scout that I possibly can. I (almost always) teach more than is required for particular skill advancement. Example: I teach Scouts the following: Granny Knot, Grief Knot, Surgeons Knot, a Single Slippery Square Knot, a Double Slippery Square Knot, Double Overhand knot, and a Thief’s Knot as variations to a Square Knot.
VERY IMPORTANT NOTE: I (any Scout Leader) can only test what is required in the Scout Handbook or the Merit Badge Pamphlets to pass the advancement requirement.
#4 The purpose of the e-mails is for the Troop to stay connected and working toward advancement. Let us all use this virus as an opportunity instead of as a sinkhole. I try to keep them interesting and varied. The troop has Scouts in all stages of advancement.
I challenge each Scout to learn something new. I have asked for input as to which topics/requirements I should concentrate on. My method is to not lecture on one topic for a week (YUCK). Sometimes I add inspirational or thought-provoking questions, quotes, & thoughts. Every Scout is learning about their world and their universe as am I.
#5 Thank you for asking the question. I hope this helps all to understand what & how & why I am sending these out.
Your servant in Scouting,
Gaither
PS:
When does a hot dog get in trouble?
When it is being a brat.