9 Dec 2003	Written by Assistant Committee Chair, Steve DeWeese
29 March 2004	Comments by Committee Chair, Randy Park
11 June 2004	Formatted as Web Page, Roy Sumner

Updating Troop 673 Policy Manual

The purpose of this procedure is to establish guidelines on how to add and revise the Troop 673 Policy Manual. This policy is based on references to the

Boy Scout Handbook
Scoutmaster Handbook

To Add a Procedure

The policy, procedure or guideline to be added will be presented in writing at any Troop Leadership Committee meeting. The format should conform to the current Troop Guideline format. No advance notification is necessary. A brief discussion will be held if needed. This will be considered the “First Reading”. A copy of the proposed procedure will be included in the minutes of the meeting.

At the next Troop Leadership meeting the proposed procedure or guideline will be discussed and any issues or concerns should be resolved. This is considered the “Second Reading”. Any changes to the wording of the procedure should be noted and a vote taken to accept, reject or modify the procedure. A 2/3’s majority of those in attendance will pass the item. The new procedure will be rewritten with approved changes and presented at the next Troop Leadership meeting for inclusion in the Troop Guidelines. The final version can be discussed and changed again with a majority vote of those in attendance (this is done to recognize that additional changes to approved procedures will most likely continue to surface and there is a means to accommodate these changes).

The Troop Leadership Committee will decide by a simple majority when a rejected procedure can be resubmitted. It is generally recommended that one year lapse before a rejected procedure can be presented again to the Troop Leadership Committee.

To Change a Procedure

The procedure or guideline to be revised will be presented in writing (a mark up of the existing procedure) at any Troop Leadership Committee meeting. No advance notification is necessary. A brief discussion will be held if needed. This will be considered the “First Reading”. The Troop Leadership Committee can by majority vote decide to either accept or reject the revision or delay the vote until the next meeting. A copy of the revised procedure will be included in the minutes of the meeting.

If required, at the next Troop Leadership meeting the proposed revision will be discussed and any issues or concerns should be resolved. This is considered the “Second Reading”. Any changes to the wording of the revision should be noted and a vote taken to accept, reject or modify the revision. A 2/3’s majority of those in attendance will pass the item. The revised procedure will be rewritten with approved changes and presented at the next Troop Leadership meeting for inclusion in the Troop Guidelines. The final version can be discussed and changed again with a majority vote of those in attendance (this is done to recognize that additional changes to approved procedures will most likely continue to surface and there is a means to accommodate these changes).

The Troop Leadership Committee will decide by a simple majority when a rejected revision can be resubmitted. It is generally recommended that one year lapse before a rejected procedure can be presented again to the Troop Leadership Committee.

Biannual Review of Procedures

Every two years the Troop leadership committee should review all procedures to change or update them as appropriate. The procedures should be reviewed at the first Troop Leadership meeting of the new Scout year – usually the first Troop Leadership meeting in September.

Important Addresses

Meeting Place and Charter Organization

Great Falls United Methodist Church

10100 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, VA 22066

Tel: (703) 759-3705

http://www.bsa673.org/

Local Scout Supplies

Rider's Hobby Shop

http://www.riders.com/location.asp ?loc=Sterling%2C+Virginia

21800 Towncenter Plz # 236, Sterling, VA 20164 Phone: (703) 430-2202 Near the corner of Route 7 & Dranesville Road

Scout Store

Scout Shop: http://www.boyscouts-ncac.org/resources/shop.html

National Capital Area Scout Shop

9190 Rockville Pike

Bethesda, MD 20814-3897

(301) 564-1091

(301) 564-6028 fax

Hours of Operation:

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday: 9 am — 6 pm

Thursday: 9 am — 9 pm

Saturday: 10 am — 3 pm

Round Table

LDS Church, Chantilly

Meets third Thursday of each month from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Neckerchief Manufacturer

Eastern Emblem Manufacturing Corporation

509-511 18th Street

P.O. Box 828

Union City, NJ 07087-0828

800.344.5112

Fax 201.867.7248

Previous Invoice Number: 83688

Troop 673 GREAT FALLS

Royal blue edge piping

Scout Staff

District Executive:
Lauren LaViolette
301-214-9127
Email: llaviolette@boyscouts-ncac.org

Powhatan Distict Director:

John Epler

jreppler@comcast.net

O (703) 277-9033
h (703) 264-9642

11523 Hearthstone Court, Reston

Powhatan District Unit Commisioner:

Al McCosh

Scout Master:

J. C. Chamberlain 703.444.2914 BSATroop673@cox.net

Committee Chair: Randy Park

Executive Officer:

Eric Fox 406-0854

1450 Powells Tavern Pl, Herndon

Great Falls United Methodist Men’s Club

Camping Policy

Weekend Camping

It takes a lot of planning to have a successful outing. We need to make reservations, pay advance fees for cabins and camp sites, buy propane and other supplies and buy food, all before we actually go camping. What you can do to help is to keep an eye on your calendar and note the following schedule:

q At least three Tuesdays before the campout we will pass out permission forms for the next campout and ask the boys to sign-up for the campout.

q Completed and signed permission forms are due back to the Scoutmaster with payment in the form of cash or check or scout account withdrawal two Tuesdays before the campout unless otherwise stated on the form. This gives us plenty of time to meet with the treasurer to convert the checks and make scout account withdrawals and to arrange drivers. This night is the last to request a refund or financial aid for a weekend trip.

q Tuesday before the campout patrol grubmasters will be given an amount of money in cash to buy the patrol’s food.

q Day of trip, scouts must be in Class A’s and be ready to load up at least fifteen minutes before the departure time. The caravan will leave on time and scouts not ready there fifteen minutes before departure may be turned away.

High Adventure & Summer Camping

It takes even more planning to have a successful high adventure camp outing. We need to make reservations, pay advance fees for camp sites, boats, canoes, etc. What you can do to help is to keep an eye on your calendar and note the following schedule. High Adventure reservations are made long before the actual event (2 years for Philmont, 18 months for Seabase, 16 months for Northern Tier). Reservations to BaseCamp are made August-September of the year prior.Months before high adventure or summer camp, ASMs will be assigned lead for each outing and will be:

q 6 months before the ASM will be passing out general information sheets

q 4 months before the ASM will be passing out detailed information packets with permission slips and deposit requests

q 3 months before deposits are due

q Scout travel dues will cover the cost of required adults’ dues. Required adults are determined by the first adults to provide deposits. Deposits for required adults are refunded after attending the trip.

Camping Payment Policies

1. All trips shall be self financing in that as far as possible there will be no cost to the troop.

2. The cost for all trips shall be equal for all persons with the exception of high adventure trips. The high adventure fee costs (not travel) for the first two adults shall be borne by all other members of the trip including adults.

3. Deposits shall be no greater than the costs required to secure the trip with the appropriate organization.

4. No deposits shall be refunded due until the trip is complete and all expenditures are known.

5. Following the trip there will be a final accounting by the trip leader and the cost per head calculated and refunds given or bills sent as appropriate to ensure that the cost to the troop is zero.

6. If there are cancellations and there are additional costs as a consequence of these cancellations then the cost per head of the trip for each participant will be equal to the costs assuming there were no cancellations.

7. The additional costs as a consequence of the cancellations will be taken from the payments made by the persons that cancelled. The amount dispersed will be in proportion to the payments made for trips no taken.

8. Following these payments the remaining monies will be returned to those parties that cancelled.

Camping Procedures

This section explains the troop’s camping policy and applies to all Scouts actively enrolled in the troop. This policy is based on the Boy Scout Handbook.

Participation in a Camping Activity

The Scout shall provide to the Outdoor Coordinator the signed permission ship and required funds on the due date set by the activity hand out. Advancement requires attendance to 75% or more camping activities.

Transportation

The Transportation ASM along each patrol will be responsible for making arrangements for their patrol member's transportation to and from all events, including campouts. This may be as simple as ensuring that each Scout will have a seat and seat blet in a car of an adult that is planning on attending the event. Each parent will be encouraged to do their share of driving to and/or from campouts.

Patrol Duty Roster

For each camping trip the Senior Patrol Leader and Patrol Leaders should appoint Scouts to be responsible for the following duties:

q Cook: Prepares meals, washes utensils and cookware used for meal preparation.

q Assistant Cook: Assists cook as requested, prepares pot of water for dish washing, supervises meal cleanup.

q Meal Cleanup: Washes pots, pans and utensils used to prepare meal.

q Fire: Care for and prepare equipment used to cook on and refuel if necessary (insures camp stoves are operational and establishes axe yard, gathers wood if necessary and builds fire.

q Water: Insures enough water is available for drinking, cooking and washing. For hiking trips insures that a water filter or other means to purify water is available.

q Site Cleanup: Responsible for organizing the cleanup of the campsite. Insures all trash is picked up and properly disposed of (carried out if necessary). Opens and closes latrines as needed.

The use of the Patrol Duty Roster at the end of this procedure is encouraged for each campout.

Patrol Duty Roster

Patrol Name:__________________________________

Camping Trip:___________________________________

NAME	Saturday Breakfast	Saturday Lunch	Saturday Dinner	Sunday Breakfast	Sunday Lunch
	Cook	Water	Site Cleanup	Meal Cleanup	Fire
	Assistant Cook	Cook	Water	Site Cleanup	Meal Cleanup
	Fire	Assistant Cook	Cook	Water	Site Cleanup
	Site Cleanup	Fire	Assistant Cook	Cook	Water
	Water	Site Cleanup	Fire	Assistant Cook	Cook
	Assistant Cook	Cook	Meal Cleanup	Fire	Site Cleanup

Cook: Prepares meals, washes utensils and cookware used for meal preparation.
Assistant Cook: Assists cook as requested, prepares pot of water for dish washing, supervises meal cleanup.
Meal Cleanup: Washes pots, pans and utensils used to prepare meal

Fire: Care for and prepare equipment used to cook on and refuel if necessary (insures camp stoves are operational and clean, appropriate fuel is available - propane fuel cells or white gas), establishes axe yard, gathers wood if necessary and builds fire.
Water: Insures enough water is available for drinking, cooking and washing. For hiking trips insures that a water filter or other means to purify water is available.

Site Cleanup: Responsible for organizing the cleanup of the campsite. Insures all trash is picked up and properly disposed of (carried out if necessary). Opens and closes latrines as needed.

Attendance and Advancement Policy

Part of Scout Spirit is trying to achieve 100% attendance. While there is no attendance requirement, Scouts are encouraged to participate fully. To advance in rank, attendance and participation are required. (See section titled Advancement). To earn an Attendance Award, a majority of all meetings and activities must be attended.

Scouts with leadership responsibilities are required to attend at least 75% of Patrol Leaders' Council Meetings. (See section titled Leadership)

Rank Advancement in Scouting is in this order: Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, Eagle and Eagle Palms. Requirements for rank advancement are described in the Boy Scout Handbook. The Scout will learn and execute the various skills required for each rank and demonstrate those skills to his Patrol Leader or other members of the boy leadership. They will sign off each requirement after this demonstration so that the Scout has a record of his progress in his Boy Scout Handbook. For this reason, it is important that the Scout bring his Boy Scout Handbook to all Troop functions.

Advancement Procedures

Advancement

Troop activities will be designed to provide ample opportunity to meet rank advancement requirements. Each Scout will be encouraged to reach the rank of First Class Scout within 12 months of joining the Troop and to earn at least four merit badges per year after that, thereby making steady progress toward Eagle rank.

Scouts will be responsible for monitoring and managing their own rank advancement. Scouts should bring their scout handbooks to all meetings and outings and obtain signoffs for requirements as soon as they are completed.

Any Scout ranked 1st Class or above may sign off on completion of rank requirements for another Scout of lower rank. For example, a Star Scout may sign off requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class rank. The fulfillment of the leadership requirement for Star, Life, and Eagle may be signed off by the SM or ASMs.

Advancement records will be kept up to date by the Troop Committee member who is designated the Advancement Coordinator in Troop Master Millenium.

A list of merit badge counselors in the district will be provided for the Scouts’ reference by the Advancement Coordinator.

The Troop Committee will establish and maintain a good reference library of merit badge books, which will be administered by the Scout appointed Troop Librarian.

Scoutmaster Conference

The Scout must contact the Scoutmaster for a Scoutmaster's conference. Completed merit badge cards also known as blue cards and any other material necessary to show completion of the rank, should be brought to the conference. Class A uniform is required. The ‘dual leadership’ rule applies. After the Scoutmaster's conference, the Scout must call the Advancement Chairman to schedule his Board of Review up to and including the rank of Life.

Board Of Review Policy

“The board of review is conducted by adult troop leaders interested in a Scout’s progress. They want to make sure the requirements have been completed for a rank. They may also be able to suggest ways for a scout to get more out of the program."

Boy Scout Handbook, page 591

The purpose of the Board of Review is not to retest a Scout, but rather to ensure that he has completed all of the requirements, to determine the quality of his troop experience, and to encourage him to advance toward the next rank. Each review should also include a discussion of ways in which the Scout sees himself living up to the Scout Oath and Law in his everyday life. Boards for the ranks of Tenderfoot through Life should each last about 15 minutes. Every session should be set up to so that each member of the board can share a meaningful discussion with the Scout about important matters including his goals, personal growth, and Scout spirit. The following guidelines will help provide an atmosphere of trust and support:

q Make every effort to put the Scout at ease

q Smile and create a friendly, non-threatening mood

q Enliven the discussion by asking open-ended questions about the boy’s recent Scouting adventures

q Ask about his family and school activities

q Offer encouragement and praise.

Board of Review for Tenderfoot through Life Procedures

1. After the completion of Scout Master’s conference, the scout should request the Board of Review at least ONE WEEK PRIOR TO the review date by phone call to the Advancement Chair.

2. Parent participation in the review process is mandatory. The review process is painless and a short, easy to understand tutorial will be given to new parents right before each review.

3. BORs are held the third Tuesday of each month, unless there is another event.

4. Scout will be escorted to the BOR by his Patrol Leader or designate. Scouts should come to Board of Review IN FULL CLASS A UNIFORM along with PROPERLY SIGNED-OFF HANDBOOK

5. The Board of Review is organized by the Troop Advancement Chairman and is composed of from three to six members of the Troop Leadership Committee (all parents are members of the committee). The Scout's parents, the Scoutmaster and the Assistant Scoutmasters cannot serve as Board of Review members.

6. At the end of the review, the Scout will leave the room while the board members discuss his qualifications. Then they will call him back to tell him if he is qualified for his new rank, or to outline very clearly what more he must do in order to successfully complete the requirements. The board can close the session by congratulating the Scout and encouraging him to continue his good efforts.

7. The BOR is a chance for the committee to get feedback on how the troop is fulfilling the scout’s expectations. BOR meeting minutes will be kept and forwarded to the Committee Chair, Scout Master and Senior Patrol Leader.

Advancement Counseling Conferences

If a Scout has not had a Board of Review within any given year, a conference will be scheduled with the Board of Review, the Scout, and at least one other registered adult leader to discuss and support the Scout’s progress, plans, and leadership activities.

Court of Honor Preparation

All paperwork, Merit Badges, Scoutmaster Conference, and Board of Review approvals must be completed and submitted to the Advancement Chairman ten days BEFORE the Court of Honor at which that award is to be presented. This will allow the Advancement Chairman or Advancement Committee Members time to:

- fill out advancement forms

- purchase the appropriate badges and awards from the Scout Store

- pack badges and awards into manilla envelopes

- print out and label all envelopes, merit badge cards and advancement cards

- draft, edit and publish the COH Program

The Scout Master will also need time to sign off on all the merit badge and advancement cards.

The rank of Eagle involves a much more involved verification process, including National evaluation of the Scout's qualifications. This information is given to the Scout when he achieves the rank of Life. See the procedure for obtaining the rank of Eagle for details.

Troop Specific Awards/Honors

Cory Corrales Spirit Award:

The troop recognizes a scout who best exemplifies Scout Spirit by awarding the Cory Corrales Spirit Award at the September Court of Honor. The award is in honor of a former Troop 673 Eagle Scout who died in a car crash in 1999. The scout recognized for this award is given a plaque and his name is put on the troop recognition plaque. Cory was an exemplary Scout who made a lasting impression on those who knew him during the very short time he was with the troop. He personified the true meaning of Scout Spirit.

The award winners are selected by an adult committee chosen by theTroop Leadership Committee. The committee members can only be composed of adults who are not the parent of an eligible Scout (parents of Scouts who have received the award can be members of the committee). The Scout should be selected in time for the last scheduled Court of Honor for that scouting year. It is possible for the committee to vote that no scout is deserving of the award for that year. A Scout can only receive the Cory Corrales award once.

Honor Patrol

The Honor Patrol award is presented annually to the patrol members of the patrol that best exemplifies the spirit of Scouting. The Leadership Patrol in coordination with the adult leaders selects the honor patrol. Criteria used to select the Honor Patrol include but are not limited to participation in troop meetings and outings, advancement, patrol specific initiatives/service projects and best patrol spirit. The Honor Patrol should also be selected in time for the last Court of Honor. Each patrol member will receive a Scout related item, usually a hiking stick.

Scout of the Month

At the end of each Scouting month the Patrol Leadership Council will select a Scout of the Month. The selection is usually made at the first PLC meeting after the end of the month. The Scout selected will receive a $20.00 credit to their escrow account.

Courts of Honor

Courts of Honor are scheduled four times a year. Activities include award presentations, entertainment, food, and fun. All Scouts, leaders, parents, and family are always welcome. Eagle Courts of Honor may be held in conjunction with a regular Court of Honor or planned separately and are held twice a year.

Merit Badge Policy

This policy applies to all Scouts actively enrolled in the troop and references

Boy Scout Handbook
Scoutmaster Handbook
Merit Badge Books
Eagle Rank Advancement Procedure

More than 100 different merit badges can be earned. Specific merit badges are required for the Eagle rank. A listing is included in the Boy Scout Handbook. Some merit badges are earned during troop skill sessions and campouts, some are earned at summer camp, and some are earned according to the Scout’s interest.

The troop provides merit badge booklets to Scouts for certain merit badge sessions. A $3.00 deposit will be collected by the Troop Librarian. The deposit will be forfeited if the Scout fails to turn the booklet back to the Troop Librarian when requested.

Merit Badge Procedures

Counselors

The troop Advancement Chair has a list of the Merit Badge Counselors, within and outside of the troop, available to assist with the various merit badges. Anyone with knowledge or experience in one of these areas can be registered as a Merit Badge Counselor to assist Scouts in achieving the particular merit badge's requirements.

The scout must contact a counselor to make an appointment to start working on a merit badge. Merit badges can also be earned through county and other activities that you can learn about in the BSA District Paper.

Summer camp is a great way to earn lots of merit badges within a week. Some boys even go to two summer camps and come back with ten merit badge qualifications.

Blue Card

The scout must request a “blue card” or merit badge card from the Advancement Chair. The Scout fills out the name of the merit badge, his name and address, troop 673, and Powhatan district. The Scout must then obtain SM or ASM approval before taking the card with him when he sees the counselor.

Procedure. The counselor cannot be the Scout’s parent. Part of the purpose of the merit badge procedure is for the Scout to learn to talk to adults. The Scout must call the counselor himself. The Scout must identify himself, tell the purpose of his call, and arrange a time to meet the counselor.

When the Scout meets with the counselor, he must be in full Class A uniform. The Scout may be accompanied by a parent or a friend, who may stay in the vicinity of the Scout (2-deep leadership), but not at the actual meeting of the Scout and counselor. At the meeting, the counselor and Scout review whether the requirements for the badge have been met and schedule future meetings. It is recommended that the Scout review the merit badge requirements and have as many documentable requirements completed before the first meeting with the counselor. The Scout should bring his completed work and the merit badge book to the meeting with the counselor.

Upon satisfactory completion of the merit badge requirements, the counselor will sign off on the blue card for credit. The Scout should return the completed card to the Advancement Chair. He should retain his portion called APPLICANTS SECTION for his record.

Merit Badge Card

When the scout receives his merit badge he will also receive a merit badge card. KEEP THIS CARD SAFE. You will need to show it for Eagle qualifications. See the Advancement Committee Member for Merit Badge Card holders for three ring binders. The card holders are the same used for baseball cards.

Service Project Policy

Scouts demonstrate Scout spirit by voluntarily participating in community oriented activities called service projects. The best known one is Scouting for Food, but there are other troop projects, including helping other Scouts with Eagle projects. Each Scout in the troop is required to participate in the troop’s annual fundraiser by working a total of 6 hours annually.

Re-charting Procedures

Each year the re-charter renewal process starts and requires several hours of prep time. Here is the chronology of steps:

OCT
1. Receive Renewal Packet at District Round Table
2. Clean up scout and adult rooster
NOV
1. Gather recent adult/scout Registration, Transfer and Merit Badge Counselor Forms
2. Gather Adult Leader Training Information
3. Fill in Quality Unit Award
DEC
1. Print out Report > Scout/Unit > Re-charter from Troop Millennium and address any problems the report spits out
2. Print out Finalized report and Create Floppy of SCOUTNET file
JAN
1. Get Scout Master Signature for Renewal Envelope, Renewal Re-Charter Report and Quality Unit Award
2. Get Executive Officer Signature for Renewal and Adult Transfers
3. Set up time to meet with Unit Commissioner, Treasurer and Committee Chair to review
FEB – drop dead. Paper work MUST be to Unit Commissioner before 01 FEB

Recruitment and Retention Procedures

Bridge Over

Prep Transfer Forms and get Cub Pack Committee Signature
Request Packmaster Floppy for boys coming over

Attendance

Scrtibe must get accurate attendance for all meetings and events. Scouts that have missed three meetings and events sequentially will get a call from their patrol leader.

Meeting Procedures

Troop meetings are held every Tuesday night at 7:30 p.m. at the Great Falls United Methodist Church unless other plans have been made ahead of time.

Patrol Leaders' Council (PLC) is held the last Sunday of each month at 7pm.

Troop Committee meetings (parents are encouraged to attend) are held the first Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at Great Falls United Methodist Church unless other plans have been made ahead of time.

Any changes to the above meetings will be noted on the Troop calendar on the Troop Web Site: http://www.bsa673.org/

Troop Meetings

Troop meetings are held at Great Fall United Methodist Church during the school year. There are no regular troop meetings if there is no school that day such as during school summer vacation or snow days. The troop meetings are usually held on Tuesday evenings from 7:30 p.m. until approximately 9:00 p.m. Please refer to Troop Calendar for actual dates, times and locations of troop meetings. All Scouts, leaders, and parents are always welcome at troop meetings.

Meeting activities include:

Working on rank advancement and merit badges.

Preparing for troop outings and service projects.

Participating in troop recreational activities

Patrol Meetings

Patrol meetings are generally held during the troop meetings. Activities include working on Scout advancement and preparing for future meetings, hikes, camping trips, skits, and troop outings. Although adults are always present at the meetings, the patrol leader is in charge of planning and running this meeting to encourage development of leadership skills. Any lack of leadership skills by the patrol leader should be discussed with the Scoutmaster rather than confronting the patrol leader or his parents directly.

Patrol Leader Council (PLC) Meetings

These meetings, attended by the Scoutmaster and/or adult leaders, patrol leaders, and members of the leadership patrol, plan Scouting activities for the coming month, and discuss and resolve any problems among Scouts. Refer to the Troop Calendar for dates.

Annually, the patrol leaders will poll their scouts for suggestions and ideas, and hold a program planning meeting to develop the next year's activities and monthly themes.

Regular Campouts

The monthly outdoor activities are planned and scheduled by the troop PLC. Troop 174 camps monthly during the school year in all types of weather. Proper equipment will be used during inclement weather and the camp out may be modified based on weather conditions that create a safety hazard for the Scouts. All Scouts, leaders, and parents are welcome. Adults form their own patrol for meal, logistic and sleeping arrangements.

Camporees

Spring and Fall Camporees, summer camp and the summer High Adventure (Philmont Scout Ranch, Maine High Adventure & Sea Base) are coordinated with District, Council and the adult leader responsible for leading High Adventure.

Special Events

A variety of special events are planned, depending on the interests of the Scouts and availability of adult support. These may include snow skiing, baseball games, amusement park trips, float trips, ropes courses, rock climbing and rappelling and others. All Scouts, leaders, and parents are welcome, and some events are planned to include the whole family.

Troop Leadership Committee (TLC) Meetings

TLC meetings are usually held on the first Monday during the school year at GFUMC from 7:00pm to 8:00pm. Agenda items usually include:
1. Discussing special events, Courts of Honor, and other PLC planned activities.
2. Making decisions regarding fund raising activities and the expenditure of these funds.
3. Setting policies regarding conduct and discipline.
4. Resolving transportation and safety needs for troop activities.
5. Communicating information obtained at the District Roundtable.
ALL PARENTS are automatically members of the committee and attendance at this meeting is strongly encouraged. This is the best way to find out what activities are planned and to influence the direction of the troop. This is your troop and we are all volunteers.

Voting members of the Troop Committee will include all registered adult leaders, the ASMs and the SM. Votes, when taken, will be carried by a simple majority of those present.

One person will serve as the Committee Chair. Other specific committee positions will

include: Advancement Coordinator, Fundraising Coordinator, Secretary, Treasurer,

Transportation Coordinator, and other positions as the need arises.

The Troop Committee will be responsible for selecting the SM and the ASMs for the Troop, or for approving the selection of ASMs recommended by the SM. The Troop Committee is responsible for filling specific committee positions such as Advancement Coordinator, Treasurer, etc. To ensure the continued well-being of the Troop, the Troop Committee will handle replacements or changes to any of these positions as necessary. Parents/guardians are encouraged to attend and participate in the Troop Committee meetings. At least one parent/guardian of each Scout will register with the BSA as a Troop Committee member, ASM, or SM.

Roundtable Meetings

At this meeting, representatives from all of the troops in the Powhatan District exchange ideas on activities, receive announcements about District and Council events, fundraising projects, service projects and other issues of common interest. All leaders and parents are welcome.

When: 8:00-9:00 p.m.

Date: Second Thursday of each Month

Where: Church of LDS in Chantilly

2727 Centreville Rd, Herndon, VA 20171

Phone: (703) 793-0012

Adult Leader Training

A wide variety of skill training sessions are conducted by the Powhatan Council the National Capitol Area. Some training is provided just before the monthly Round Table meetings. These sessions will enable you to be a more effective member of our troop. Some activities require the presence of specially trained adults. Schedules are available from your Training Chair. Specifically, we recommend that all adults attend Boy Scout Adult Leader Training, so that they understand the Patrol method that is the basis of all Boy Scout programs. It is also an opportunity to meet other parents interested in scouting for fun and fellowship.

Leadership Procedures

Elections

Are held approximately every six months. Senior Patrol Leader and Patrol Leaders are elected positions with a simple majority required for election. Candidates for Senior Patrol Leader must be First Class rank or higher. Other positions (including Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Quartermaster, Scribe, Librarian, and Historian) are appointed by the Senior Patrol Leader with Scoutmaster approval. Advancement requirements for leadership positions will be taken into consideration while making appointments.

Following elections, all members of the newly elected Patrol Leaders' Council will be required to attend Troop Junior Leader Training. Failure to attend and successfully complete training within three months leads to dismissal from position. The Scoutmaster will appoint an interim scout who will server until the end of the term.

Patrol Leaders' Council (PLC) Meetings

Are held on the Sunday prior to the Troop Committee meeting.

Are to be attended by all leadership positions.

75% attendance required for leadership credit for rank advancement.

Impeachment

If an elected officer fails to fulfill the responsibilities of his office, he may be impeached by being placed on a one month probation by unanimous vote of the other members of the PLC. At the end of the probationary period, the officer will be returned to active status, unless the other members of the PLC unanimously vote to remove them from office.

Senior Patrol Leader (SPL)

Job Description

The senior patrol leader is elected by the scouts to represent them as the top junior leader in the troop. Reports to Scout Master.

Duties

• Maintain contact with SPL to keep informed of troop activities.

• Maintain contact with Patrol members and remind them of troop/patrol activities and assignments.

• Maintain contact with New Scout Guides (if applicable) to monitor progress of 1st Year charges

• Troop Meetings.

• Monitors advancement of Scouts below 1st Class rank.

• Maintains order of Patrol

• Test and signs off on completion of individual rank advancements.

• Attends PLC meetings

• Runs all troop meetings, events, activities, and the annual program planning conferences

• Appoints other troop junior leaders with the advice and counsel of the Scoutmaster

• Assigns duties and responsibilities to junior leaders

• Assists the Scoutmaster with junior leader training

• Sets a good example

• Enthusiastically wears the Scout uniform correctly

• Lives by the Scout Oath and Law

• Shows Scout spirit

• Be the best-qualified scout to run the troop

• Firmly in charge of troop meetings and activities

• Run the patrol leaders' council meeting with advice from the junior assistant Scoutmaster and the adult troop leaders

• Maintains contact with the Patrol Leaders and reminds them of any special activities.

• Finds a replacement if unable to attend any meeting or activity (usually Assistant Senior Patrol Leader).

• Maintains contact with Assistant Senior Patrol Leader and Scoutmaster.

• Creates agenda and runs Troop meetings as outlined by the PLC. Agenda at a minimum will cover:

q Opening

q Attendance – Scribe

q Summary of last Activity - Historian

q State of Equipment – Quartermaster

q Reminders of upcoming Activities - ASPL

q Announcements for the good of the troop from the floor

q Break into groups

o Group I (those planning on attending next activity) prep for next trip

o Group II (those not) advancement activity

q Patrol Competition (highest human pyramid, etc.)

q Administrative Announcements – SPL, Committee Chair, ASMs

q Scoutmaster Moment

q Closing

Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL)

Job Description

The assistant senior patrol leader is the second-highest-ranking junior leader in the troop. He is appointed by the senior patrol leader with the approval of the scoutmaster. The assistant senior patrol leader acts as the senior patrol leader in the absence of the senior patrol leader, or when called upon. He also provides leadership to other junior leaders in the troop.

Duties

• Helps the senior patrol leader lead meetings and activities

• Runs the troop in the absence of the senior patrol leader

• Helps train and supervise the troop scribe, quartermaster, instructor, librarian, historian, and chaplain aide

• Serves as a member of the patrol leaders' council

• Sets a good example

• Enthusiastically wears the Scout uniform correctly

• Lives by the Scout Oath and Law

• Shows Scout spirit

• Maintains contact with Librarian, Historian, Scribe, and Quartermaster and reminds them of any special activities.

• Maintains contact with SPL and attempts to attend all meetings and events.

Troop Guide

Job Description

The troop guide works with new Scouts. He helps them feel comfortable and earn their First Class rank in their first year. Reports to the assistant Scoutmaster for the new Scout patrol in the troop.

Duties

• Provide mentoring of 1st Year scouts for rank advancement during first 12 months.

• Provide training of 1st Year Scouts to complete requirements up to 1st Class.

• Test and signs off on completion of individual rank requirements.

• Attempts to attend all Troop meetings

• Attends PLC meetings

• Introduces new Scouts to troop operations

• Guides new Scouts through early Scouting activities

• Shields new Scouts from harassment by older Scouts

• Helps new Scouts earn First Class rank in their first year

• Teaches basic Scout skills

• Coaches the patrol leader of the new Scout patrol on his duties

• Works with the patrol leader at patrol leaders' council meetings

• Attends patrol leaders' council meetings with the patrol leader of the new Scout patrol

• Assists the assistant Scoutmaster with training

• Counsels individual Scouts on Scouting challenges

• Sets a good example

• Enthusiastically wears the Scout uniform correctly

• Lives by the Scout Oath and Law

Quartermaster (QM)

Job Description

The troop quartermaster keeps track of troop equipment and sees that it is in good working order. Reports to ASPL and Troop Committee for Troop equipment.

Duties

• Keeps records on patrol and troop equipment

• Makes sure equipment is in good working condition

• Issues equipment and makes sure it's returned in good condition

• Makes suggestions for new or replacement items

• Works with the troop committee member responsible for equipment

• Sets a good example

• Enthusiastically wears the Scout uniform correctly

• Lives by the Scout Oath and Law

• Shows Scout spirit

• Provides equipment as assigned by PLC.

• Keeps accurate records of Troop and Patrol equipment.

• Keeps equipment in good repair - reports when equipment needs to be replaced or repaired.

• Issues equipment and records when returned and condition.

• Oversees the loading of gear.

• Attends PLC meetings to answer equipment supply questions and learn equipment needs of upcoming activities.

Scribe

Job Description

The troop scribe keeps the troop records. He records the activities of the patrol leaders' council and keeps a record of dues, advancement, and scout attendance at troop meetings. Reports to the ASPL.

Duties

• Attends and keeps a log of patrol leaders' council meetings

• Records individual Scout attendance and dues payment

• Records individual scout advancement progress

• Works with the troop committee member responsible for records and finance

• Sets a good example

• Enthusiastically wears the Scout uniform correctly

• Lives by the Scout Oath and Law

• Shows Scout spirit

Librarian

Job Description

The troop librarian takes care of troop literature. Reports to ASPL.

Duties

• Sets up and takes care of a troop library

• Keeps records of books and pamphlets owned by the troop

• Adds new or replacement items as needed

• Keeps books and pamphlets available for borrowing

• Keeps a system for checking books and pamphlets in and out

• Follows up on late returns

• Sets a good example

• Enthusiastically wears the Scout uniform correctly

• Lives by the Scout Oath and Law

• Shows Scout spirit

• Maintains Troop Library with the following rules:

1. Items may be checked out for one month. After one month, items must be returned and may be rechecked out as many times as desired.

No more than six items may be checked out by a scout at one time.
Late fee of 25 cents per week for each item overdue.
Borrower responsible for replacing items lost while checked out.
Adds new or replaces items in the Troop Library as needed.
Keeps a system to check items in and out of the Troop Library
Follows up on late returns to the Troop Library.
Provides literature and resource materials for Troop meetings as assigned by PLC.

• Presents Troop activity summary and photos.

• Requests additional information and photos.

• Maintains Troop scrapbook.

• Takes photos and writes Troop activity summary.

Den Chief

Job Description

The den chief works with the cub Scouts, Webelos Scouts, and the den leaders in the Cub Scout pack. Reports to the den leader in the pack and the assistant Scoutmaster for the new Scout patrol in the troop

Duties

• Knows the purposes of Cub Scouting

• Helps Cub Scouts advance through Cub Scout ranks

• Encourages Cub Scouts to join a Boy Scout troop upon graduation

• Assists with activities in the den meetings

• Is a friend to the boys in the den

• Helps out at weekly den meetings and monthly pack meetings

• Meets with adult members and attends monthly pack meetings

• Meets with adult members of the den, pack, and troop as necessary

• Sets a good example

• Enthusiastically wears the Scout uniform correctly

• Lives by the Scout Oath and Law

Adult Leadership Positions

Committee Positions

Committee Chair

Monitors troop activities, schedules Eagle presentations and EBOR, schedules and arranges ECOH.

Treasurer

Develops budget for year and presents to TLC. Manages funds of the Troop including funds earned by scouts from car wash and alike projects.

Secretary

Takes minutes of TLC meetings, and publicity of events to newpapers, etc.

Troop Webmaster

Maintains troop website http://www.bsa673.org

Advancement Chair

Maintains TroopMaster and troop registration. Tracks attendance, schedules regular BOR and arranges COH.

Outdoors Chair

Manages logistics for monthly activities (reservations, makes permission slips, distributes other required forms, collects slips, forms & money, arranges transportation, makes payments)

Community Service Chair

Coordinates service activites (carwash, Riverbend, church)

High Adventure Chair

Manages logistics for HA and BaseCamp. (reservations, recruits for crew, makes permission slips, collects and monitors due dates on money, monitor medical form turn-in, makes payments, monitors pre-training activity, helps in selection of HA/BC)

Meetings Chair

Ensures troop and Roundtable meetings covered by sufficient Scouters. Ensures activity sign-ups and money collection at meetings.

Training Chair

Monitors district and Council announcements for all training activities for Scouters and scouts. Maintains training up-to-date training schedule. Makes announcements.

Recruiting Chair

Maintain liaison with feed Cub packs. Coordinates Den Chief program.

Scout and Assistant Scout Master Positions

Scout Master (SM)

Assistant Scout Master (ASM)

New Scout Patrol

Older Scout Patrol

Youth Protection

Troop Equipment

Junior Assistant Scout Master (JASM)

Discipline

The Boy Scout Oath and Law are the foundation for expected behavior in the Troop.

Unacceptable behavior includes: fighting, profanity, purposeful destruction of Troop equipment, and safety violations leading to the endangerment of others or self (including failing to follow instructions and willful disobedience).

Unacceptable behavior will result in disciplinary procedures as described below:

First offense:

Handled by an executive Displine committee (Committee Chair, Scoutmaster, Char Organizational Rep). The first offense will be on record for twelve months after the incident, unless a second offense occurs.

Second offense

Meeting with the parents and the Troop Committee.

Third offense

Suspension or expulsion from the Troop or other disciplinary action decided by the Troop Committee.

Unacceptable behavior may result in expulsion from the current troop activity. Parents are expected to pick-up scouts at the activity site within a reasonable amount of time, determined by the distance of the activity from Great Falls, Virginia.

Any extreme conduct including but not limited to use of, possession of, or threatening with a weapon of any kind and use of, or possession of drugs or alcohol will result in the immediate expulsion from the Troop at discretion of the Troop Committee.

Accidental damage to any Troop, Patrol, or personal items will be assessed by the Troop Committee, and a resolution made.

TROOP FINANCES

Troop Treasurer (Treasurer) shall:

a. Deposit receipts (collections) and disperse funds for troop activities to/from the

appropriate troop account

b. Maintain an accurate record of all troop receipts and disbursements

c. Develop, prepare, and submit financial reports and annual budget as agreed upon by the Treasurer and the Senior Troop Committee members (Committee Chair, Scoutmaster, Chartered Organization Representative)

Accounts

The Treasurer shall maintain the following troop accounts (Note – the Checking Account has two components within the same account):

a. Checking Account – 1st component is to deposit /disburse funds for ongoing troop operations and activities

b. Checking Account – 2nd component is to maintain the balance of boy scout and adult leader funds derived from Fund Raisers

i. Funds can be used for troop activities only

ii. Individual boy scout balances are increased by their attendance at fund raisers as determined by the Adult Leader overseeing the fund raising activity(s)

iii. Individual boy scout balances are decreased by completing a Troop 673 Account Withdrawal form - to be obtained from the Troop Website

iv. The completed Form will be treated as either partial or payment in full for the scout’s share of any given activity costs, and needs to be given to the SPL or Adult Leader (whoever is collecting funds) in charge of the activity, with a copy going to the Treasure.

Fund Raising

Adult Leaders overseeing the Fund Raising activities will be responsible for:

1) maintaining a worksheet showing amount raised and balances of the individual boy

scouts and adults

2) submitting that list to the Treasurer fo Checking Account – 2^nd component.

When a scout leaves the Troop he can choose to donate any remaining balance in

his account to

1) troop checking account – 1st component

2) Camperships for other scouts

3) International Scouting Fund.

Annual Budget

In conjunction with the May planning calendar, the Treasurer will prepare an annual budget. Categories to be considered include; registration, re-chartering, administration, training, equipment, outings, awards, and other significant activities. The budget will be based on historical and projected financial data available. Sources will include troop financial records and projected funding needs as submitted by the Troop Committee members and Adult Leaders in charge of Troop activities. The budget will be reviewed and approved by the Troop Committee at large at the June Troop Committee meeting.

Troop Committee Meetings

The Treasurer shall:

a. Give a financial update of the previous months financial activities

b. Prepare and submit to the Senior Troop Committee members a monthly financial status report and make a limited number of copies available to the Committee at large

c. Submit a copy of the current troop bank statements to the Committee Chair

Collections and disbursements of funds

a. Funding for troop activities shall be pre-authorized by the Troop Committee at large through the budget process or at a Troop Committee meeting. In the event funding is needed outside this process, and a disbursement will exceed collections by $250,

authorization by the Committee Chair is required. Authorization is required prior to submitting a completed Funds Form to the Treasurer.

b. Collection and request for disbursement of funds for troop activities are the responsibility of the Adult Leader in charge of the activity:

i. Funds deposited or dispersed will be initiated by completing a BSA Troop 673 - Funds Request form (Funds Form), found on the Troop 673 website

ii. A Funds Request should be completed for each activity (A deposit and disbursement for the same activity only requires one form)

iii. Authorization (signature) by the Committee Chair - When required pursuant to Section a. above, signature on the Funds Form shall be obtained prior to submittal to the Treasurer

iv. Supporting documentation shall accompany the Funds Form including; receipts, a completed Fund Raising Form, Petty Cash Receipts and printout, and other documents as appropriate

v. Submit the completed Funds Form to the Treasurer for processing

c. The Treasurer shall comply with the funding request, or take timely action to resolve any existing issues pertaining to the request – generally disbursements will be made within one week from the time the Funds Form is submitted to the Treasurer

d. The Treasurer shall record the completed funding transaction

Self Funded Events

Troop outings/events (Event) shall be funded by those participating in the Event.

The Event should be budgeted, per participant, for cost plus a factor of 5%. The factor is to be applied on all Event costs other than food and transportation. The additional funding will be applied to troop operating needs. It is the responsibility of the Adult Leader to budget (and obtain Troop Committee approval prior to disbursement of funds), collect, and request reimbursement of Event funds. Funding should be included for patches appropriate for the Event.

a. Adult leaders of events are responsible for preparing and presenting a preliminary budget at a Troop Committee Meeting at least 8 weeks before the scheduled event. The estimate should include:

q number of participants expected to attend

q campsite fees

q food

q transportation fees (if applicable)

q patches

and any other expense s to be paid by the event participants.

b. Within 30 days after the completion of the event a budget “summary” should be submitted to the Treasurer showing the actual cost for the event (amount of funds collected and any outstanding amounts still due).

7. Troop boy scout dues, to be collected annually by December 1, are initially set at $110/Boy Scout, or $100/two Boy Scouts – new scout dues are prorated based on remaining months in the calendar year. New Scout registration is an additional $35 and is due at the time of the Cub Scout cross-over ceremony. If not a cub scout cross-over, the new scout registration is due at the first attended meeting. In either case, the New Scout packet should not be distributed.

a. The Troop Registrar shall cause a notice to be sent to each scout family two months before the collection date. Registration received after announced deadline date will incur an additional “late fee” of $ 10.00.

b. The troop will not automatically pay registration fees for scouts and collect fees after the fact.

c. Dues are subject to review, and change, by the Troop Committee at large

d. Troop annual dues pay for the Boys Life subscription, BSA re-registration, and other troop operating needs

e. Scholarships for summer camp and registration fees are available to scout families in need and will be reviewed and approved on a case-by-case basis by the Senior Troop Committee membership (Scoutmaster, Chartered Org. Rep. and Committee Chair).

8. The troop shall pay the annual registration fee for all registered adults

9. Miscellaneous funding

a. Adults who drive on a troop activity may be reimbursed for their gas cost if the adult leader in charge of the activity elects to do so (Such funds shall be collected from the scout participants of that activity)

b. Equipment purchased with troop funds shall be recorded by the adult quartermaster and returned to troop inventory after each use

c. Patches purchased from troop funds for Events, merit badge, and other awards where there is an excess, such excess will be turned over to the Advancement Chair for troop use at a later date.

Troop Equipment

The troop maintains equipment for use by troop members during outings and includes Patrol boxes (camp kitchens), tents, and other gear. The Troop Quartermaster is responsible for the equipment. The Quartermaster distributes the equipment prior to each outing and collects the equipment after the outing. Individual tents are allowed during long term camping, family camping and Philmont training campouts.

Personal Equipment

An Official Boy Scout Handbook is usually furnished by the troop along with the troop neckerchief, slide and copy of the Policy and Procedures for Troop 673. Other Scout supplies may be purchased at Scout stores.

A Scout shirt is required for most events. Please see the Boy Scout Handbook for proper placement of insignia and correct uniform combinations. The uniform should include the Scout shirt, neckerchief and slide (dress uniform only) and pants or shorts. The pants or shorts can be either Scout issue or khaki or olive drab color only. Blue jeans, sweats or cut off shorts are not appropriate. Scout pants/shorts are not required by the troop. However, if Scout shorts are worn then Scout socks are required. If non-Scout shorts are worn then socks must also be worn.

Each Scout is required to bring his own sleeping bag (or equivalent sleeping gear) for overnight events. A comprehensive checklist of personal gear may be found in the Boy Scout Handbook. Note that all the materials listed are not required on all outings and some may not be required at all. Scouts should discuss this list with the Scoutmaster and the boy leadership to determine essential equipment required.

If lack of money for the above mentioned items will prevent your son from participating in the Scouting Program, please contact the Scoutmaster or a committee member for assistance in locating used uniforms and equipment. The wearing of the uniform is meant to instill pride in being a member of this group and make us recognizable to the public, not to keep out those who can't afford it. To assist those in need of financial assistance – contact the Committee Chair, Scoutmaster or the troop Treasurer for more information. All inquiries will be kept in confidence

Food for Campouts

Food for a campout is usually planned by each patrol separately. The menu must be approved by the adult leadership or by the Senior Patrol Leader. One patrol member, on a rotating basis, is asked to buy food for the entire patrol. Money for the meal should be collected from the Scouts in advance and is provided to the patrol grubmaster the meeting before the campout. The patrol grubmaster should submit the receipt to the Troop Treasurer for reimbursement

Knives

Only Scouts who have earned their Totin’ Chip card are allowed to carry knives. The Totin’ Chip card is used for verification of safety training with knives, hand axes, and saws. Sharp implements, other than knives, are to be used only in the axe yard. For each violation of the Totin’ Chip requirements (“My Responsibilites” section of the card) a corner of the card will be torn off (by any Scout leader). Once all four corners are torn off the Scout loses their Totin’ Chip card and must be recertified in order to carry a knife or use an axe or saw on troop functions.

Acceptable knife size is a knife with a blade no longer than 3 inches. Sheath knives are discouraged. Pocket knives or multi purpose tool knives such as a “Leatherman” with a locking blade are recommended for use by the Scouts.

Any unauthorized knife (knife with a blade longer than three inches) or implement will be confiscated by an adult troop leader and may be returned to the Scout after the troop activity is over. Any knife or implement will be confiscated if a troop adult leader observes the knife or implement being used in a threatening or otherwise inappropriate manner. The knife or implement will not be returned until the Scout has appeared before either the Troop Leadership Committee or the Patrol Leadership Committee to explain his actions. The Scoutmaster will determine which committee the Scout attends. The committee will determine the appropriate disciplinary action to be taken.

Communications Policy

This policy applies to all Scouts, leaders and adults actively involved with the troop and references the:

Boy Scout Handbook
Scoutmaster’s Handbook
Scouter Newsletter
Boys Life
Scouting Magazine

Communication Procedures

Written Communications

Written communications include Troop Guidelines, Troop monthly Troop Leadership Committee Meeting minutes, Troop yearly activity calendar, the Council's Scouter newsletter (TLC), Boys Life magazine for Scouts, Scouting magazine (sent as a benefit of adult registration), Troop monthly newsletter or Activity Permission slip for each troop activity.

Verbal Methods of Communication

Patrol leaders are responsible for keeping their patrol members informed about troop activities and events. Patrol leaders verbally communicate with their patrols during troop meetings and are expected to keep their patrol informed by calling them if necessary about troop activities and events. At the beginning and end of each troop meeting announcements are made regarding activities, events and issues affecting the troop. Announcements should be coordinated with the Senior Patrol leader and/or any of the adult leaders. Patrol leaders, the senior patrol leader and the adult leaders are available to talk with Scouts and parents at any time. The troop encourages the open communication of issues and concerns in order to further the aims and purpose of Scouting.

Problems or Grievances

In the event of a problem or grievance by a parent, the Troop Leadership Committee meeting has been designated as the only place to air or resolve their problems or grievances. Parents should refrain from any direct verbal confrontation with the boy involved or any of the volunteer adult leaders. Nothing can be resolved without the discussion and approval of the Committee. The Committee Chairperson should be contacted directly so that the issue can be discussed and brought to resolution.

Religious Observance

The Troop will encourage each Scout to honor the 12th point of the Scout law, “A Scout is Reverent,” according his and his family’s individual beliefs. The Troop will make an effort to accommodate the requirements of each Scout’s religious observance customs.

Because the Troop serves Scouts with a wide variety of religious backgrounds, there will not be any attempt to provide formal religious observance for the Troop on campouts and outings. Parents and Scouts will need to discuss specific needs for religious observance with the SM to determine how those requirements can best be met.

The Troop will encourage reverence and reflection by praying in thanks at meals in a form that respects the diversity of beliefs of the Scouts. We will also encourage Scouts to attend formal religious observances when they are provided at Council events and when they are appropriate to a Scout’s religious practice.

High Adventure Activity

High Adventure activities will be designed to provide a challenging outdoor experience for the Scouts, one which will help them develop teamwork skills and allow them to practice their accumulated Scouting skills.

The Troop will plan a High Adventure activity each year, alternating between events/trips with substantial travel and expense and lower-cost, closer-to-home events/trips. High Adventures trips can be to BSA bases such as Philmont, Sea Base, etc., or to an event planned and conducted by the Troop itself (such as Isle Royale backpacking, canoe trip in the BWCA, Colorado Rockies hiking, etc.).

High Adventure events will be restricted to Scouts who have reached the age of 13 prior to departure on the trip, have reached at least the rank of First Class Scout, and have completed the required merit badges as determined in advance by the planning committee. Exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The Troop Committee is responsible for establishing a High Adventure planning committee that will include at least two registered adult leaders likely to participate in the event, and an equal number of senior Scouts, including the current SPL and Assistant Patrol Leader (ASPL). This planning committee will brainstorm and research potential ideas for High Adventure activities, including locations and dates, likely costs, and possible activities of the event. The planning committee will also determine what merit badges will be required of participants. The required merit badges will typically be chosen based on skills relevant to the event.

The planning committee will select 2 - 4 trip/event options that meet the needs and objectives of the Troop’s High Adventure activity. The planning committee will present the options at a Troop meeting to which parents have been invited and will facilitate discussion of the options. The Scouts eligible to attend, based on age and rank, will be responsible for selecting the High Adventure activity from among the options by majority vote.

After the Scouts have chosen an activity, the planning committee will report to the Troop Committee, summarizing the details of the proposed High Adventure including:

a. Location and dates

b. Estimated costs

c. Itinerary and activities for the event

d. Eligibility requirements and criteria for selection of participants if the number eligible and desiring to attend exceeds the trip limit.

Examples of criteria that may be considered include attendance at Troop meetings and events during the past 12 months, or advancements earned within the past 12 months.

The Troop Committee will review and approve or recommend modifications to the plan.

The planning committee will then be responsible to:

a. Publicize information about the High Adventure to individual Scouts.

b. Select participants based on the requirements.

c. Recruit the necessary number of adults for the trip.

d. Make all reservations and file for District and National Tour Permits, if required.

e. Request and track payments and health forms from the participants, if required.

f. Prepare a list of personal and troop gear that will be necessary for the trip.

Glossary

"Class A" uniform

Class A’s are required at all Troop meetings and during Troop travel to and from activities unless otherwise directed. Class A’s refers to:

q Official Boy Scout shirt with proper insignias, including badges of rank and current office

q Official green web belt or leather belt with Scout belt buckle Neckerchief and slide.

q Blue jeans (Hemmed, blue jean shorts accepted).

q Any official Boy Scout uniform parts properly worn (e.g. hats, shorts, socks, jackets, etc.)

"Class B" uniform

Class Bs uniforms are required at all other times unless otherwise directed.

q Troop 673 T-shirt

q Troop 673 baseball cap

q Official green web belt or leather belt with Scout belt buckle

q Blue jeans (Hemmed, blue jean shorts accepted)

q Any official Boy Scout uniform parts properly worn (e.g. hats, shorts, socks, jackets, etc.)

NOTE: Scout Spirit includes wearing the uniform correctly (e.g. patches properly placed, shirt tucked in, and hat removed indoors).

Appendix A. File Attachments

Troop Leadership Duties: