Troop 813 utilizes the "Scoutbook" software system (under Activity Logs in advancements.scouting) for tracking advancement, camping nights, hiking, service hours, and scouts's other information. Each scout and their parents should have received instructions on how to access the Scoutbook system and view advancement reports. To get further guidance on accessing the Scoutbook system, please contact our Troop 813 Advancement Chairs. They are available every Friday Troop meeting.
How we Advance
It Is a Method—Not an End in Itself
Advancement is simply a means to an end, not an end in itself. It is one of several methods designed to help unit leadership carry out the aims and mission of the Boy Scouts of America.
Rank Advancements
Advancement is the process by which youth members of the Boy Scouts of America progress from rank to rank and is the method by which we promote and encourage ongoing involvement and commitment to Scouting.
Merit Badges
Merit badges are a key part of the Scouting Program. There are more than 135 merit badges, and a scout can earn any of these at any time. After picking a merit badge, talk to your Scoutmaster or Advancement Chairs to find a counselor .
Boards of Review
The Scouts BSA board of review aims to determine the quality of the Scout’s experience and decide whether the requirements to achieve the Scout’s next rank have been fulfilled.
Advancements
Scouting offers challenges that foster self-reliance and confidence. Advancement encourages ongoing involvement, with achievements recognized and rewarded, promoting continuous growth.
01
Advancement Is Based on Experiential Learning
Advancement in Scouting aims to educate and broaden horizons, with members learning and developing through standards and experiential activities. Learning happens by doing, not by rushing through requirements. Ranks and awards mark progress, but practical application ensures skill retention and continuous learning.
03
Advancement Requires Mentorship
Advancement in Scouting is collaborative, involving leaders, youth, volunteers, and families. While individuals progress at their own pace, group activities foster teamwork. Leaders support and encourage youth, recognizing their unique strengths and weaknesses. Methods like the Scout Oath, patrol method, and adult association promote personal growth, belonging, and mutual respect.
02
Personal Growth Is the Primary Goal
While learning Scouting skills is valuable, the main goal is personal growth through participating in a unit program. Overcoming challenges builds confidence and self-awareness. Skills are learned, tested, and recognized, fostering confidence and development. Success is seen in character, citizenship, leadership, and fitness, leading to responsible, self-reliant, and caring individuals.
04
Policy on Unauthorized Changes to Advancement Program
No council, committee, district, unit, or individual can change advancement requirements, except for specific cases involving members with special needs. Mandatory procedures use terms like "must" and "shall," requiring adherence unless the National Advancement Program Team grants written permission. Best practices use "should," and options are indicated by "may" or "can." For questions, consult local advancement chairs or staff advisers.
Merit Badges
You are expected to meet the requirements as they are stated—no more and no less. You must do exactly what is stated in the requirements. If it says “show or demonstrate,” that is what you must do. Just telling about it isn’t enough. The same thing holds true for such words as “make,” “list,” “in the field,” and “collect,” “identify,” and “label.”
Find out more about merit badges at the Official site below:
https://www.scouting.org/skills/merit-badges/
1
Pick a Subject
2
Scout Buddy System
3
Call the Merit Badge Counselor
_JPEG.jpeg)
4
Unless otherwise specified, work on a requirement can be started at any time
5
Show Your Stuff
6
Get the Badge
Boards of Review
A board of review aims to determine the quality of a Scout’s experience through a conversation between the Scouts and 3-6 members of the troop committee. . It should be viewed as a chance to talk with the Scout about what they’ve done, what they’ve learned, and how they enjoy the program. It’s required for every rank in Scouts BSA from Tenderfoot to Eagle Scout and should happen after the Scoutmaster conference. “The board of review is not a retest of any sort. It's supposed to be more of a check-in time, asking them how things are going.” (GTA 8.0.1.1) The whole thing should take 15-30 minutes. At the end, the Scout leaves the room while the board deliberates. If the board unanimously agrees that the Scout is ready to advance, the Scout is called back and congratulated.