BSA Troop 256 Policy and Procedures Manual: Advancement

Table of Contents

Advancement

BSA Handbook The current Scout Handbook prescribes advancement requirements. Initials and a date beside a rank requirement indicates achieving that particular item. While a parent may help a Scout achieve the required level of competence in a particular requirement, a registered adult leader not the Scout's parent must initial the requirement. The non-parent adult leader may prescribe appropriate testing of the Scout to demonstrate mastery of the requirement.

The primary record for achievement of rank advancement requirements is the Scout's personal Scout Handbook. As such, a Scout should safeguard his Scout Handbook and insure that his name and troop, at a minimum, appear in his Scout Handbook.

The Troop Advancement Chair maintains a computerized advancement record. From time to time, the Troop Advancement Chair reconciles his computerized records with the Scouts' Scout Handbooks. In case of an irreconcilable difference, the Scout Handbook record governs. Other proof of achievement includes: Merit Badge cards, summer camp records, and other appropriate paper records.

Troop 256 recognizes achievement of rank and merit badges by furnishing the Scout with uniform insignia and appropriate documentation. Scouts should develop a system for safeguarding and storing rank and merit badge documentation. A Scout should display on his Class A uniform his current rank insignia and merit badges.

The goal of Scouts should be the achievement of the rank of Eagle. Requirements and standards for achieving the rank of Eagle are rigorous, specific, and enforced with exactitude. Fewer than 3% of all Scouts achieve the rank of Eagle, but many of society's leaders began their rise to high levels of achievement by earning the rank of Eagle. A Scout must satisfy all of his Eagle requirements before reaching his 18^th birthday. Resources from Troop 256 and Comanche District are available to counsel and assist Eagle candidates.