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Contacts & InformationNew Scout Program is lead by ASM Jeff Chipman. For questions contact Jeff at jeffc1734@gmail.com
Troop 49 B Scoutmaster Tim Voiles welcomes your questions by email, phone, or text- tvoe68@yahoo.com Troop 49 G Scoutmaster Jen McCarthy welcomes your questions by email, phone, or text- mccjen49@yahoo.com |
Welcome to Troop 49
Congratulations on joining Troop 49. If you have just earned your Arrow of Light and reflect on your years in Cubscouting, you will recognize how you have grown, learned new skills, and had a lot of fun. All of this has set the foundation for years of fun in Boyscouting. If you are new to Scouting, get ready for several years of learning new skills and fun!
What next? Come to our next Troop meeting. They are usually held on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Thursdays of each month, from 6:30pm to 8:00pm. We meet at Delafield Presbyterian Church. Wear your uniform. If you earned your Arrow of Light be sure to sew your badge below your left pocket. Bring your application, or fill one out there. Your parent can work on the paperwork with one of the Troop adults. You will sit with the other scouts and participate in the meeting. You are now a member of Troop 49! You will receive your Scout Handbook at your Crossover or your first meeting. After the opening flag ceremony, the meeting will start with announcements. We also post information on our website. We are a busy troop and there will be a lot of information on upcoming activities. Do your best to listen and make note of activities in which you are interested in participating and sign up for the fun.
Troop Leadership. You will notice that the meeting is run by a Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) and Assistant Patrol Leader (ASPL). These scouts have been elected to their positions and they run the troop. They have experience in scouting but, just like everyone else, are learning and practicing their leadership skills. If you have a question, they should be able to answer it. Troop 49 has a male troop and a female troop. The leadership of those troops alternate monthly in leading our linked troop meetings and the SPL of the other troop leads the games for that month.
Patrol Corners. After the announcements, the Troops will split into Patrol Corners. A Patrol is a smaller group of scouts. You will start out in the New Scout Patrol, and several new scouts will be joining you over the next few months. (After a year you will become part of one of the other Patrols.) Your New Scout Leader and Troop Guides will explain how to use your Scout Handbook and how to work through the ranks in your book. Write you name in your book and on the edge too. Take care of your Scout Handbook. This is your record of achievement. Record camping trips and service projects in it. When you demonstrate completion of a rank achievement, a scout leader or Troop Guide will sign off in your book. Actually doing the steps in your rank, as well as working on merit badges, is the scout's task and responsibility. You set the pace for how you will make progress in scouting. Troop leadership, other scouts, and your parents will encourage you along the way. But this is your journey. Scouts usually earn First Class rank within a year or so of starting in Boyscouts. For some it takes longer. No matter how long it takes, it is sure to be a fun and rewarding experience.
Games and Instruction. The Troops will gather together to play a game and to take part in Instruction where the Troop Instructor will talk about a scouting skill. This part of the meeting is another way you can have fun and get to know the scouts in your Troop. Plus you will likely learn something!
Closing. Soon it will be time to sit down, hear some final announcements and listen to the Scoutmaster Minute. We take this time seriously. This is an opportunity to learn more about the Spirit of Scouting, and can set your course for the next week. Scouting is fun, but also helps you develop personal strength and focus. A scout lives the Scout Oath and the Scout Law daily.
A few days after your application is processed, your parent will receive an email to log into Scoutbook. We encourage your parent to set up a unique account for you on Scoutbook using your email as well. Either way, communication to you should be answered by you. Troop information and our Troop Policies can be found on our website: troop49summit.com.
Every scout here was once new to Boyscouting; every adult here was once new to scouting too- please do not hesitate to ask questions. We are here to help. You are part of the family.
What next? Come to our next Troop meeting. They are usually held on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Thursdays of each month, from 6:30pm to 8:00pm. We meet at Delafield Presbyterian Church. Wear your uniform. If you earned your Arrow of Light be sure to sew your badge below your left pocket. Bring your application, or fill one out there. Your parent can work on the paperwork with one of the Troop adults. You will sit with the other scouts and participate in the meeting. You are now a member of Troop 49! You will receive your Scout Handbook at your Crossover or your first meeting. After the opening flag ceremony, the meeting will start with announcements. We also post information on our website. We are a busy troop and there will be a lot of information on upcoming activities. Do your best to listen and make note of activities in which you are interested in participating and sign up for the fun.
Troop Leadership. You will notice that the meeting is run by a Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) and Assistant Patrol Leader (ASPL). These scouts have been elected to their positions and they run the troop. They have experience in scouting but, just like everyone else, are learning and practicing their leadership skills. If you have a question, they should be able to answer it. Troop 49 has a male troop and a female troop. The leadership of those troops alternate monthly in leading our linked troop meetings and the SPL of the other troop leads the games for that month.
Patrol Corners. After the announcements, the Troops will split into Patrol Corners. A Patrol is a smaller group of scouts. You will start out in the New Scout Patrol, and several new scouts will be joining you over the next few months. (After a year you will become part of one of the other Patrols.) Your New Scout Leader and Troop Guides will explain how to use your Scout Handbook and how to work through the ranks in your book. Write you name in your book and on the edge too. Take care of your Scout Handbook. This is your record of achievement. Record camping trips and service projects in it. When you demonstrate completion of a rank achievement, a scout leader or Troop Guide will sign off in your book. Actually doing the steps in your rank, as well as working on merit badges, is the scout's task and responsibility. You set the pace for how you will make progress in scouting. Troop leadership, other scouts, and your parents will encourage you along the way. But this is your journey. Scouts usually earn First Class rank within a year or so of starting in Boyscouts. For some it takes longer. No matter how long it takes, it is sure to be a fun and rewarding experience.
Games and Instruction. The Troops will gather together to play a game and to take part in Instruction where the Troop Instructor will talk about a scouting skill. This part of the meeting is another way you can have fun and get to know the scouts in your Troop. Plus you will likely learn something!
Closing. Soon it will be time to sit down, hear some final announcements and listen to the Scoutmaster Minute. We take this time seriously. This is an opportunity to learn more about the Spirit of Scouting, and can set your course for the next week. Scouting is fun, but also helps you develop personal strength and focus. A scout lives the Scout Oath and the Scout Law daily.
A few days after your application is processed, your parent will receive an email to log into Scoutbook. We encourage your parent to set up a unique account for you on Scoutbook using your email as well. Either way, communication to you should be answered by you. Troop information and our Troop Policies can be found on our website: troop49summit.com.
Every scout here was once new to Boyscouting; every adult here was once new to scouting too- please do not hesitate to ask questions. We are here to help. You are part of the family.
Fundraising & Scout Accounts-
Troop 49 does not charge yearly registration fees. Instead, it raises funds through product sales. For each product sale fundraiser, a portion of the sales is put in the scouts’ individual scout account and another portion goes to the Troop General Fund to cover Troop expenses.
The Troop Sales Policy requires that each scout participate in the product sales and, over the year, bring in at least $175 in profit to the Troop. If a scout is short of this goal at the end of the year the scout is billed the difference.
The amount of money that goes into an individual’s scout account is dependent on sales during the fundraisers. This money can be used by the scout to pay for scout activities such as campouts and merit badge clinics. Due to new IRS rules, it can not be used to buy personal camping equipment.
The Troop funds are used to pay for expenses such as yearly membership fees for all adults and scouts, trailer insurance and storage, rank badges and merit badges, equipment, necessary adult camp fees, and other troop expenses.
Troop 49 participates in the following fundraisers: Fall Wreath and Popcorn sale, Brats and Burger sale, Spring Kringle & Coffee sale. We are always looking for new ideas and opportunities.
The Troop Sales Policy requires that each scout participate in the product sales and, over the year, bring in at least $175 in profit to the Troop. If a scout is short of this goal at the end of the year the scout is billed the difference.
The amount of money that goes into an individual’s scout account is dependent on sales during the fundraisers. This money can be used by the scout to pay for scout activities such as campouts and merit badge clinics. Due to new IRS rules, it can not be used to buy personal camping equipment.
The Troop funds are used to pay for expenses such as yearly membership fees for all adults and scouts, trailer insurance and storage, rank badges and merit badges, equipment, necessary adult camp fees, and other troop expenses.
Troop 49 participates in the following fundraisers: Fall Wreath and Popcorn sale, Brats and Burger sale, Spring Kringle & Coffee sale. We are always looking for new ideas and opportunities.
Scout Uniform
Scouts wear their Class A uniform (Tan shirt) to Troop Meetings, Courts of Honor, while driving to and from camp, and at all outings. The number 49 should be sewn on the left sleeve under the Council patch. Position patches go on the left sleeve under the Troop number. The Patrol Patch is sewn under the American Flag in the right sleeve.
The 'Class B' (Troop T-shirt) is worn for Service Projects and Eagle Project work days when appropriate.
Neckerchiefs and Merit Badge Sashes are worn at Court of Honors, Flag Ceremonies, Webelos Crossovers, and other formal events. Merit Badges are sewn on the front of the sash and participation badges may be sewn on the back.
Troop 49 scouts wear the Troop 49 Neckerchief.
Troop 49 has a supply of these neckerchiefs at a cost of $10.00 each.
Green epaulets are also available from the Troop for $4.00 a set. They are also available at the Scout Shop.
We have a collection of donated tan shirts, if needed.
The 'Class B' (Troop T-shirt) is worn for Service Projects and Eagle Project work days when appropriate.
Neckerchiefs and Merit Badge Sashes are worn at Court of Honors, Flag Ceremonies, Webelos Crossovers, and other formal events. Merit Badges are sewn on the front of the sash and participation badges may be sewn on the back.
Troop 49 scouts wear the Troop 49 Neckerchief.
Troop 49 has a supply of these neckerchiefs at a cost of $10.00 each.
Green epaulets are also available from the Troop for $4.00 a set. They are also available at the Scout Shop.
We have a collection of donated tan shirts, if needed.
Camping with the Troop-
Going to camp. There are several camps available to the scouts throughout the year. The Troop schedules one or two week-long summer camps, as well as a weekend campout just about every month. Registration is done through the Troop adult who is coordinating the campout or event. Payment is due before camp. Fees, registration, food, and transportation costs are paid through the scout's 'Individual Scout Account'. Sometimes an estimated fee is proposed during registration for the event, and you will be notified of the final cost about a week after the event.
Getting to camp. The Troop will arrange for transportation to camp. Scouts will meet at a scheduled time, and the adults who volunteered to drive will transport the scouts to camp. Scouts must wear their Class A uniform while traveling to any Troop activity, including camp. After the conclusion of camp the volunteer drivers will return scouts to a pick up location. It is important that scouts stay until the end of camp to help with clean up, check out, etc. The Troop's Event Coordinator must be notified well in advance if special arrangements are needed.
Merit Badges at Camp. Usually camps will offer a variety of Merit Badges that the scout can earn while at camp. They are earned in a clinic or group setting and run by a Merit Badge Counselor. The registration materials will show the Merit Badges offered. The scout will choose from the list of available badges, making note of the times the Merit Badge sessions are held, and give this information to the Event Coordinator. Most Merit Badges offered at camp will note the recommended years in scouting or rank needed to earn the Merit Badge. Also, most Merit Badges will have prerequisites that must be completed before camp. It is best for a scout to read the Merit Badge book before camp starts, become familiar with the subject and fulfill any prereqs. If a scout does not fulfill all Merit Badge requirements during camp, a 'partial' will be given. This is not a problem. Many scouts will go home with their requirements only partially completed. They can work on the rest of the requirements at a later date or another camp. Worksheets for Merit Badges may be found on http://usscouts.org/mb/worksheets/list.asp.
The Blue Card. After the scout is registered for the merit badges, a 'Blue Card' will be needed. The Blue Card is the official Merit Badge record and shows what requirements were completed; it is an important document. Usually, during each phase of earring the Merit Badge, the Merit Badge Counselor will initial the Blue Card. Once a merit badge is completed, the Merit Badge Counselor will sign the Blue Card. Sometimes the Troop’s Event Coordinator holds onto the Blue Cards. Otherwise, the scout will be given it and should hold onto the entire Blue Card. The scout should seek out their Scoutmaster to discuss how earning the MB went and to obtain the SM signature. The Blue Card will then be given to the Troop's Advancement Coordinator. Once documented, the scout will be given one portion of the Blue Card to keep as a record of earning the merit badge. The actual Merit Badge will be awarded at the next Court of Honor. Keep your Blue Card safe, it is an important record of your Merit Badge work.
Gear for Camp. Scouts will camp in the Troop’s three-person tents. Scouts need to bring a sleeping bag, camp pillow, and a sleeping mat. Cots are not allowed. Scouts should bring their Handbook, a camp chair, flashlight, towel, and toiletries. A water bottle for walking around camp is also needed. Scouts should pack items in a backpack. Garbage bags are not appropriate camping gear. Please label all personal items.
Paying for Camp. Each scout will have an 'Individual Scout Account'. All transactions will be logged by the Troop Treasurer in the Payment Log on Scoutbook. It will hold money earned through product fundraisers and fundraising events, plus any money the scout or family puts in to the account. Funds should be given to the Troop Treasurer; checks should be made out to Troop 49. These funds are held by the Troop for the individual scout's use. Due to IRS rules, funds in the Individual Scout Account may only be used for camp fees and not for personal camping gear. Camp is an important part of scouting. Scholarships and camperships through both Troop 49 and the PAC are available to help scouts pay for camp. Talk to a Committee member for more information. Campership applications are also on the troop website.
Lone Scout. There are many camps available through our Council or other Councils. Scouts may attend these as a Lone Scout or find another scout who wants to go, but often an adult will need to attend with the scouts. The registration for these camps is not done through Troop 49. If you find a camp that you think will be of interest to the Troop, a scout can gather the details together and talk to our Activities Director. If feasible, the scouts will talk about making the camp a Troop event.
Getting to camp. The Troop will arrange for transportation to camp. Scouts will meet at a scheduled time, and the adults who volunteered to drive will transport the scouts to camp. Scouts must wear their Class A uniform while traveling to any Troop activity, including camp. After the conclusion of camp the volunteer drivers will return scouts to a pick up location. It is important that scouts stay until the end of camp to help with clean up, check out, etc. The Troop's Event Coordinator must be notified well in advance if special arrangements are needed.
Merit Badges at Camp. Usually camps will offer a variety of Merit Badges that the scout can earn while at camp. They are earned in a clinic or group setting and run by a Merit Badge Counselor. The registration materials will show the Merit Badges offered. The scout will choose from the list of available badges, making note of the times the Merit Badge sessions are held, and give this information to the Event Coordinator. Most Merit Badges offered at camp will note the recommended years in scouting or rank needed to earn the Merit Badge. Also, most Merit Badges will have prerequisites that must be completed before camp. It is best for a scout to read the Merit Badge book before camp starts, become familiar with the subject and fulfill any prereqs. If a scout does not fulfill all Merit Badge requirements during camp, a 'partial' will be given. This is not a problem. Many scouts will go home with their requirements only partially completed. They can work on the rest of the requirements at a later date or another camp. Worksheets for Merit Badges may be found on http://usscouts.org/mb/worksheets/list.asp.
The Blue Card. After the scout is registered for the merit badges, a 'Blue Card' will be needed. The Blue Card is the official Merit Badge record and shows what requirements were completed; it is an important document. Usually, during each phase of earring the Merit Badge, the Merit Badge Counselor will initial the Blue Card. Once a merit badge is completed, the Merit Badge Counselor will sign the Blue Card. Sometimes the Troop’s Event Coordinator holds onto the Blue Cards. Otherwise, the scout will be given it and should hold onto the entire Blue Card. The scout should seek out their Scoutmaster to discuss how earning the MB went and to obtain the SM signature. The Blue Card will then be given to the Troop's Advancement Coordinator. Once documented, the scout will be given one portion of the Blue Card to keep as a record of earning the merit badge. The actual Merit Badge will be awarded at the next Court of Honor. Keep your Blue Card safe, it is an important record of your Merit Badge work.
Gear for Camp. Scouts will camp in the Troop’s three-person tents. Scouts need to bring a sleeping bag, camp pillow, and a sleeping mat. Cots are not allowed. Scouts should bring their Handbook, a camp chair, flashlight, towel, and toiletries. A water bottle for walking around camp is also needed. Scouts should pack items in a backpack. Garbage bags are not appropriate camping gear. Please label all personal items.
Paying for Camp. Each scout will have an 'Individual Scout Account'. All transactions will be logged by the Troop Treasurer in the Payment Log on Scoutbook. It will hold money earned through product fundraisers and fundraising events, plus any money the scout or family puts in to the account. Funds should be given to the Troop Treasurer; checks should be made out to Troop 49. These funds are held by the Troop for the individual scout's use. Due to IRS rules, funds in the Individual Scout Account may only be used for camp fees and not for personal camping gear. Camp is an important part of scouting. Scholarships and camperships through both Troop 49 and the PAC are available to help scouts pay for camp. Talk to a Committee member for more information. Campership applications are also on the troop website.
Lone Scout. There are many camps available through our Council or other Councils. Scouts may attend these as a Lone Scout or find another scout who wants to go, but often an adult will need to attend with the scouts. The registration for these camps is not done through Troop 49. If you find a camp that you think will be of interest to the Troop, a scout can gather the details together and talk to our Activities Director. If feasible, the scouts will talk about making the camp a Troop event.
Supporting the Scout-
arents play an important role in helping the scout be successful. Keeping up with the paperwork of scouting can be almost as challenging as learning the many new skills of scouting. Below are some suggestions to help the scout be organized and productive. Experienced scout parents are a valuable resource. They are usually available in the back of the room during meetings.
Scout Handbook Cover- The Scout Handbook is an important record of the many requirements the scout will achieve over the years in scouting. The handbook goes to camp and every meeting so it can suffer some hard times. A book cover can protects it to an extent, and best to have one with a zipper pocket for a pen and important notes. Sending it to camp in a ziplock bag may also help the book last the years. You will want to make frequent copies of your scout's Handbook. When a rank is earned photos of the rank pages with signatures should be uploaded to the rank on Scoutbook. Be sure to notify the Advancement Coordinator as well.
Notebook- many scouts use a small notebook to take notes at meetings and camps.
Three-ring Notebook and Clear Baseball Card Protectors- The card protectors are used to store the scout's Blue Cards, Merit Badge award cards, and Rank Advancement cards. The three-ring notebook is a good place to keep Merit Badge Workbooks, as well as a log sheet for service hours, camping days and nights, hiking miles, biking miles, and canoe miles. The log sheets in the back of the Handbook should also be kept up to date.
Work at home- It's a good idea to encourage the scout to set aside time each week to work on scouting. Setting a goal to accomplish a few rank requirements each week will keep the scout active and interested. After earning Scout Rank, scouts may work on the requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class in any order. The rank must be earned in order though. Scouts should also work on Merit Badges at home too. Motivated scouts are working on several Merit Badges at a time. Using the Merit Badge Worksheets and keeping the paperwork organized will help the scout be successful.
Troop Meetings- Before a troop meeting, sit down with your scout and go over the Handbook. Help figure out what rank requirements can be worked on at the meeting. During patrol corners, scouts are asked if they have anything they want to work on with a Troop Guide or have anything that needs to be signed off. Rank achievements may be signed off by scouts authorized to sign off or by an Assistant Scout Master (ASM).
Troop meetings should be fun and productive- Help your scout set goals for rank advancement. A great goal is to work towards earning First Class rank by the end of the first year in scouting. As scouts get older and more comfortable they will require less parent input. But scouts are more successful when the parent takes an active interest in what is being worked on, and helping review goals and time lines. The higher ranks require at least six months of holding a leadership position in the troop. Others require service hours and the earning of merit badges. While it is certainly your child's journey, scouts will benefit from being encouraged along the way.
Rank Advancements- The Scout Handbook holds the record of the requirements for rank advancement. They are found in the back pages of the Scout Handbook. The Scout Handbook should be read cover to cover. It holds answers to most of the rank advancement questions, as well as directions for important scouting skills. After the requirements for a rank are completed, the scout must ask the Scoutmaster for a conference. It is best to let the Scoutmaster know before the Troop Meeting so time can be scheduled. After the Scoutmaster Conference, the scout will need to find three adults to sit on a Board of Review. Here accomplishments and goals will be discussed. After successfully earning the rank, the scout needs to let the Scoutmaster know. Photos should be taken of the pages and uploaded to Scoutbook and the Advancement Coordinator should be notified. Your scout can work on rank advancements and merit badges simultaneously. Many merit badge requirements are also rank advancement skills.
Rank Advancement meetings- The New Scout Coordinator holds rank advancement meetings once a month. These meetings focus on whatever the scouts want to accomplish. ASMs and Troop Guides are there to teach and guide and sign off when a scout is ready. These meetings are very helpful for advancement in scouting.
Earning Merit Badges- Merit Badges are part of the core of scouting. They are more than a collection of colorful badges; they signify hard work, application of knowledge, skill development, and discipline. Once a scout wants to begin work on a Merit Badge, they will need to get a blue card and a signature from their Scoutmaster. They will also be given a list a Merit Badge Counselors from which to choose. This is the first step to earning a merit badge and must be done by the scout, not the parent. The Blue Card is a small tri-fold card that logs the name of the scout, the Merit Badge name, Merit Badge Counselor name, and has places to sign off on Merit Badge requirements as they are accomplished. The scout should borrow a Merit Badge Book from our Troop Library, borrow one from the Public Library, or purchase one from the Scout Store. The Troop Library is always looking for donations of used Merit Badge Books. The scout may also want to print a Merit Badge Worksheet off the website http://usscouts.org/mb/worksheets/list.asp The scout will need to contact a Merit Badge Counselor with whom to work on the Merit Badge. Contacting the Counselor should be done before the Scout actually starts working on the requirements as the Counselor usually likes to go over a few details first. Merit Badge Counselors have training in working with scouts and have knowledge, passion, and experience related to the specific Merit Badge for which they Counsel. Some Troop adults are Merit Badge Counselors. After contacting the Merit Badge Counselor, the scout can start working through the requirements of the Merit Badge. Any interaction with the Merit Badge Counselor will require an adult or another scout to be present. Once the Merit Badge is completed, the Counselor will sign the Blue Card. One portion will be kept by the Counselor. The scout should show the blue card to their Scoutmaster for discussion and a signature. Then the card is given to the Advancement Coordinator as soon as possible. The Coordinator will give one portion of the Blue Card back to the Scout. This portion is an important document and the scout will need to keep it as proof of completing the Merit Badge. Merit Badges are presented to the scout at the next Court of Honor.
Medical Forms- BSA requires that their Medical Form Part A and B be completed and signed by the parent for all camps that are less than 72 hours. For camps longer than 72 hours, a physical is required and BSA Medical Form Part C must be completed and signed by a physician. Forms signed by a physician are current for one year unless there has been a change in health history. It may be used for multiple camps and activities. A copy of the insurance card is also required. The Troop Medical Coordinator holds the medical forms for the troop and gives them to camp leaders when required.
Permission Forms and Sign Ups- A Troop Permission Form is needed for every camp, event, and troop activity. The permission form can also be found in the Forms section of the troop website. It should be completed and given to the Event Coordinator. We have just implemented a digital Permission Form. This can be found on the Troop website.
Payment- When payment is due, it can be made by withdrawal from the Individual Scout Account, or by payment to the Troop Treasurer. Sign up for camps and events takes place via RSVP on the Scoutbook Calendar. Once the deadline has passed, the Event Coordinator will contact all scouts who signed up and confirm registration. At this time, Permission Forms will be due, as well as payment. To fund an ISA, please write a check to Troop 49 and give it to the Troop Treasurer.
Court of Honor- The Court of Honor is a special meeting the Troop holds three times a year to award Merit Badges, Camp participation badges, and other awards. Scouts wear their full uniform, including neckerchief and Merit Badge Sash. It is important for the scouts and families to attend the Court of Honor to learn more about the Troop and support the efforts of the scouts. A Patrol will be assigned to coordinate the COH including a snacks. The Winter and Spring Courts of Honor are usually held on a Thursday night and start at 6:30. The Summer Court of Honor is held on a Sunday afternoon in August and usually includes a potluck meal.
Eagle Court of Honor- Achieving the rank of Eagle is an occasion celebrated with a special Eagle Court of Honor. The Eagle Scout family and Troop leaders plan a special ceremony, usually followed by a meal. Scouts come in full uniform and participate in the precession. Scouts and their families can learn about the Eagle Scout's journey through scouting, the camps and adventures, and the Eagle Project . This is truly a celebration – YES, you are invited- and should be attended whenever possible.
Boyscouting is an Adventure. It is Leadership Development. It is Character Building. Successful scouts learn about themselves by working, struggling, gaining confidence through challenges - even challenges that may seem simple like asking an older scout or adult for help, staying organized, failing, trying again. It should not always be a smooth journey, and it should be one that progressively becomes one’s own journey. Parents play an important role, part of which is setting a foundation and eventually stepping back, allowing the scout to struggle and flourish, but keeping a watchful eye and continual engagement and support.
Scout Handbook Cover- The Scout Handbook is an important record of the many requirements the scout will achieve over the years in scouting. The handbook goes to camp and every meeting so it can suffer some hard times. A book cover can protects it to an extent, and best to have one with a zipper pocket for a pen and important notes. Sending it to camp in a ziplock bag may also help the book last the years. You will want to make frequent copies of your scout's Handbook. When a rank is earned photos of the rank pages with signatures should be uploaded to the rank on Scoutbook. Be sure to notify the Advancement Coordinator as well.
Notebook- many scouts use a small notebook to take notes at meetings and camps.
Three-ring Notebook and Clear Baseball Card Protectors- The card protectors are used to store the scout's Blue Cards, Merit Badge award cards, and Rank Advancement cards. The three-ring notebook is a good place to keep Merit Badge Workbooks, as well as a log sheet for service hours, camping days and nights, hiking miles, biking miles, and canoe miles. The log sheets in the back of the Handbook should also be kept up to date.
Work at home- It's a good idea to encourage the scout to set aside time each week to work on scouting. Setting a goal to accomplish a few rank requirements each week will keep the scout active and interested. After earning Scout Rank, scouts may work on the requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class in any order. The rank must be earned in order though. Scouts should also work on Merit Badges at home too. Motivated scouts are working on several Merit Badges at a time. Using the Merit Badge Worksheets and keeping the paperwork organized will help the scout be successful.
Troop Meetings- Before a troop meeting, sit down with your scout and go over the Handbook. Help figure out what rank requirements can be worked on at the meeting. During patrol corners, scouts are asked if they have anything they want to work on with a Troop Guide or have anything that needs to be signed off. Rank achievements may be signed off by scouts authorized to sign off or by an Assistant Scout Master (ASM).
Troop meetings should be fun and productive- Help your scout set goals for rank advancement. A great goal is to work towards earning First Class rank by the end of the first year in scouting. As scouts get older and more comfortable they will require less parent input. But scouts are more successful when the parent takes an active interest in what is being worked on, and helping review goals and time lines. The higher ranks require at least six months of holding a leadership position in the troop. Others require service hours and the earning of merit badges. While it is certainly your child's journey, scouts will benefit from being encouraged along the way.
Rank Advancements- The Scout Handbook holds the record of the requirements for rank advancement. They are found in the back pages of the Scout Handbook. The Scout Handbook should be read cover to cover. It holds answers to most of the rank advancement questions, as well as directions for important scouting skills. After the requirements for a rank are completed, the scout must ask the Scoutmaster for a conference. It is best to let the Scoutmaster know before the Troop Meeting so time can be scheduled. After the Scoutmaster Conference, the scout will need to find three adults to sit on a Board of Review. Here accomplishments and goals will be discussed. After successfully earning the rank, the scout needs to let the Scoutmaster know. Photos should be taken of the pages and uploaded to Scoutbook and the Advancement Coordinator should be notified. Your scout can work on rank advancements and merit badges simultaneously. Many merit badge requirements are also rank advancement skills.
Rank Advancement meetings- The New Scout Coordinator holds rank advancement meetings once a month. These meetings focus on whatever the scouts want to accomplish. ASMs and Troop Guides are there to teach and guide and sign off when a scout is ready. These meetings are very helpful for advancement in scouting.
Earning Merit Badges- Merit Badges are part of the core of scouting. They are more than a collection of colorful badges; they signify hard work, application of knowledge, skill development, and discipline. Once a scout wants to begin work on a Merit Badge, they will need to get a blue card and a signature from their Scoutmaster. They will also be given a list a Merit Badge Counselors from which to choose. This is the first step to earning a merit badge and must be done by the scout, not the parent. The Blue Card is a small tri-fold card that logs the name of the scout, the Merit Badge name, Merit Badge Counselor name, and has places to sign off on Merit Badge requirements as they are accomplished. The scout should borrow a Merit Badge Book from our Troop Library, borrow one from the Public Library, or purchase one from the Scout Store. The Troop Library is always looking for donations of used Merit Badge Books. The scout may also want to print a Merit Badge Worksheet off the website http://usscouts.org/mb/worksheets/list.asp The scout will need to contact a Merit Badge Counselor with whom to work on the Merit Badge. Contacting the Counselor should be done before the Scout actually starts working on the requirements as the Counselor usually likes to go over a few details first. Merit Badge Counselors have training in working with scouts and have knowledge, passion, and experience related to the specific Merit Badge for which they Counsel. Some Troop adults are Merit Badge Counselors. After contacting the Merit Badge Counselor, the scout can start working through the requirements of the Merit Badge. Any interaction with the Merit Badge Counselor will require an adult or another scout to be present. Once the Merit Badge is completed, the Counselor will sign the Blue Card. One portion will be kept by the Counselor. The scout should show the blue card to their Scoutmaster for discussion and a signature. Then the card is given to the Advancement Coordinator as soon as possible. The Coordinator will give one portion of the Blue Card back to the Scout. This portion is an important document and the scout will need to keep it as proof of completing the Merit Badge. Merit Badges are presented to the scout at the next Court of Honor.
Medical Forms- BSA requires that their Medical Form Part A and B be completed and signed by the parent for all camps that are less than 72 hours. For camps longer than 72 hours, a physical is required and BSA Medical Form Part C must be completed and signed by a physician. Forms signed by a physician are current for one year unless there has been a change in health history. It may be used for multiple camps and activities. A copy of the insurance card is also required. The Troop Medical Coordinator holds the medical forms for the troop and gives them to camp leaders when required.
Permission Forms and Sign Ups- A Troop Permission Form is needed for every camp, event, and troop activity. The permission form can also be found in the Forms section of the troop website. It should be completed and given to the Event Coordinator. We have just implemented a digital Permission Form. This can be found on the Troop website.
Payment- When payment is due, it can be made by withdrawal from the Individual Scout Account, or by payment to the Troop Treasurer. Sign up for camps and events takes place via RSVP on the Scoutbook Calendar. Once the deadline has passed, the Event Coordinator will contact all scouts who signed up and confirm registration. At this time, Permission Forms will be due, as well as payment. To fund an ISA, please write a check to Troop 49 and give it to the Troop Treasurer.
Court of Honor- The Court of Honor is a special meeting the Troop holds three times a year to award Merit Badges, Camp participation badges, and other awards. Scouts wear their full uniform, including neckerchief and Merit Badge Sash. It is important for the scouts and families to attend the Court of Honor to learn more about the Troop and support the efforts of the scouts. A Patrol will be assigned to coordinate the COH including a snacks. The Winter and Spring Courts of Honor are usually held on a Thursday night and start at 6:30. The Summer Court of Honor is held on a Sunday afternoon in August and usually includes a potluck meal.
Eagle Court of Honor- Achieving the rank of Eagle is an occasion celebrated with a special Eagle Court of Honor. The Eagle Scout family and Troop leaders plan a special ceremony, usually followed by a meal. Scouts come in full uniform and participate in the precession. Scouts and their families can learn about the Eagle Scout's journey through scouting, the camps and adventures, and the Eagle Project . This is truly a celebration – YES, you are invited- and should be attended whenever possible.
Boyscouting is an Adventure. It is Leadership Development. It is Character Building. Successful scouts learn about themselves by working, struggling, gaining confidence through challenges - even challenges that may seem simple like asking an older scout or adult for help, staying organized, failing, trying again. It should not always be a smooth journey, and it should be one that progressively becomes one’s own journey. Parents play an important role, part of which is setting a foundation and eventually stepping back, allowing the scout to struggle and flourish, but keeping a watchful eye and continual engagement and support.
A Note to Parents of Scouts-
Parents, we appreciate that you have entrusted your child to Troop 49. We hope you will enjoy this journey as much as your child does. Below are just a few notes for you to consider.
Scout-led. Troop 49 is a “Scout-Led” and “Scout-Run” Troop that utilizes the Patrol Method to empower the Scouts to realize their individual potential, while embracing the outdoors in many different activities and programs, following the guidelines of the Boy Scouts of America. With the Scoutmaster’s direction, the scouts themselves develop the Troop’s program and take responsibility for figuring out how to achieve their goals. In order for the Troop’s youth leaders to be able to make everything happen, the Troop relies upon Scouts serving in positions of responsibility. One of the Scoutmaster's most important responsibilities is to provide the direction, coaching, and training that empowers each scout with the skills needed to lead.
Parent’s Role. While we consider Boyscouting to be the scout's journey, you play an important role in your child's journey in scouting. Your child will need the encouragement of parents. Your child will need help, at first, navigating rank advancements, contacting merit badge counselors, choosing camps and activities, and communicating with the Troop. We recommend that scouts take time each week to read the Scout Handbook, complete a step or two in ranks, and work on a portion of a merit badge. Successful scouts always have something in the hopper on which to work. There may be times that family commitments, school or extracurricular activities, or sports or clubs, take precedent over coming to Troop meetings. A scout can still be active in scouting by continuing to work on scouting while absent, and show their progress when they return.
Communication. Most of the Troop's communication is by email. This communication will usually be directed to the scout and sent to both scout and parent emails. Activities are announced at Troop meetings and then announced by email. Patrol leaders are expected to contact the scouts in their patrol and this is often done by email or phone. Successful scouts take charge of their own communication - reading or listening to messages and then replying on their own, after consulting with parents. This is a very important part of the Boyscouting program. All parties benefit from this communication when the scouts take ownership of their participation. The scout should reply to every communication.
Fun. Please keep in mind that, to adults some of what goes on at the troop meetings, particularly during game time, looks less structured than one might expect. Scouting needs to be fun too, and the games the troop plays together are intended to develop trust and friendships.
Parent Participation. For adults, scouting can be fun too. It is fun, and amazing, to watch your young child build on the values already in one's life, and develop leadership, character, and the life-long skills available through scouting. Adults can participate in the troop through a variety of ways. Help is always needed at camps, organizing events, driving scouts, or pulling the trailer. Adults who receive advanced training can work with the scouts as a Merit Badge Counselor or an Assistant Scoutmaster. And the Committee is always looking for adults willing to commit their time to fundraising or the business end of the troop. All adult members of the troop have current Youth Protection Training and actively participate when needed. We encourage you to consider where you will help the troop. Check the Help Wanted section of the website or talk to one of the adult leaders for more information. We expect at least one adult from each family to help out during the year. Check the Adult Training tab for information on upcoming classes or training opportunities.
Adult Leadership. The most important advice to remember is to trust the adult leadership of the Troop. The adult leaders have received training in working with scouts, and have experience in helping scouts develop the leadership and character traits that reflect the core values of the Boyscout program. The safety and wellbeing of the scouts is always a priority. We mandate and strictly follow BSA Youth Protection guidelines. If you have questions, please talk to one of the adults in the troop. If your child has questions, please encourage them to ask one of the adults or older scouts. Communication is key. It is part of our leadership development program.
Scout-led. Troop 49 is a “Scout-Led” and “Scout-Run” Troop that utilizes the Patrol Method to empower the Scouts to realize their individual potential, while embracing the outdoors in many different activities and programs, following the guidelines of the Boy Scouts of America. With the Scoutmaster’s direction, the scouts themselves develop the Troop’s program and take responsibility for figuring out how to achieve their goals. In order for the Troop’s youth leaders to be able to make everything happen, the Troop relies upon Scouts serving in positions of responsibility. One of the Scoutmaster's most important responsibilities is to provide the direction, coaching, and training that empowers each scout with the skills needed to lead.
Parent’s Role. While we consider Boyscouting to be the scout's journey, you play an important role in your child's journey in scouting. Your child will need the encouragement of parents. Your child will need help, at first, navigating rank advancements, contacting merit badge counselors, choosing camps and activities, and communicating with the Troop. We recommend that scouts take time each week to read the Scout Handbook, complete a step or two in ranks, and work on a portion of a merit badge. Successful scouts always have something in the hopper on which to work. There may be times that family commitments, school or extracurricular activities, or sports or clubs, take precedent over coming to Troop meetings. A scout can still be active in scouting by continuing to work on scouting while absent, and show their progress when they return.
Communication. Most of the Troop's communication is by email. This communication will usually be directed to the scout and sent to both scout and parent emails. Activities are announced at Troop meetings and then announced by email. Patrol leaders are expected to contact the scouts in their patrol and this is often done by email or phone. Successful scouts take charge of their own communication - reading or listening to messages and then replying on their own, after consulting with parents. This is a very important part of the Boyscouting program. All parties benefit from this communication when the scouts take ownership of their participation. The scout should reply to every communication.
Fun. Please keep in mind that, to adults some of what goes on at the troop meetings, particularly during game time, looks less structured than one might expect. Scouting needs to be fun too, and the games the troop plays together are intended to develop trust and friendships.
Parent Participation. For adults, scouting can be fun too. It is fun, and amazing, to watch your young child build on the values already in one's life, and develop leadership, character, and the life-long skills available through scouting. Adults can participate in the troop through a variety of ways. Help is always needed at camps, organizing events, driving scouts, or pulling the trailer. Adults who receive advanced training can work with the scouts as a Merit Badge Counselor or an Assistant Scoutmaster. And the Committee is always looking for adults willing to commit their time to fundraising or the business end of the troop. All adult members of the troop have current Youth Protection Training and actively participate when needed. We encourage you to consider where you will help the troop. Check the Help Wanted section of the website or talk to one of the adult leaders for more information. We expect at least one adult from each family to help out during the year. Check the Adult Training tab for information on upcoming classes or training opportunities.
Adult Leadership. The most important advice to remember is to trust the adult leadership of the Troop. The adult leaders have received training in working with scouts, and have experience in helping scouts develop the leadership and character traits that reflect the core values of the Boyscout program. The safety and wellbeing of the scouts is always a priority. We mandate and strictly follow BSA Youth Protection guidelines. If you have questions, please talk to one of the adults in the troop. If your child has questions, please encourage them to ask one of the adults or older scouts. Communication is key. It is part of our leadership development program.
Alphabet Soup-
- APL - Assistant Patrol Leader
- ASM - Assistant Scoutmaster
- ASPL - Assistant Senior Patrol Leader
- COH- Court of Honor
- COPE - Project COPE (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience)
- FOS - Friends of Scouting
- JASM - Junior Assistant Scoutmaster
- LNT - Leave No Trace
- NESA - National Eagle Scout Association
- NYLT - National Youth Leadership Training
- OA - Order of the Arrow
- PL - Patrol Leader
- PLC - Patrol Leaders' Council
- SPL - Senior Patrol Leader