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TROOP 19 Parent & Scout Guide

2016-2017

Bethany Baptist Church 1150 Hilfiker Ln SE (Behind Trader Joe’s) Salem OR 97302

Serving Salem Since December 1941

www.salemtroop19.com www.cpcbsa.org

Committee Chair – Jamie Hofmann (503) 881-3636 Scoutmaster – Sean Cooper 503-949-1516

3/5/2017

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WELCOME Welcome to Troop 19 of the Boy Scouts of America. We are part of the Willamette District of the Cascade Pacific Council. Our program runs year round. We're pleased to have you and your son in Troop 19. We hope that Scouting in our Troop is challenging, exciting and rewarding.

It is important to check the calendar, read your e-mails, and use our website, www.salemtroop19.com, for information. We also have a Troop 19 Facebook Group. Contact Jamie Hofmann on Facebook to join.

PURPOSE The purpose of this handbook is to inform. It explains the structure of the Troop and the aims of Scouting. If you have comments, suggestions, or questions, please contact the Committee Chair.

JOINING THE TROOP Membership is open to all boys who are 11 years old, or one who has completed the fifth grade or earned the Arrow of Light Award and is at least 10 years old, but is under the age of 18.

When a new Scout joins Troop 19, it is expected that his parents will also become personally involved. There are many opportunities for you to help. Ask the Committee Chair or the Scoutmaster for more information. Scouting is not a babysitting program. The degree of parental interest is directly related to the success of your son in Scouting. To become a Boy Scout registered adult, a parent must complete a BSA adult application.

The values we aim to instill are based on the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Scout Motto and the Scout Slogan, as shown in the Scout Handbook. All Scouts are expected to learn the words of the Scout Oath and the Scout Law immediately. These words hold a special significance to a Boy Scout.

MEETINGS*

Meeting Day Time Location

Troop (all parents & Scouts)

Mondays except major holidays

7:00 - 8:30 pm Bethany Baptist

Church

Patrol Leaders Council (PLC) (Youth & Adult Leaders only)

2nd Sunday of each month

6:30 - 8:00 pm Scoutmaster's

home

Troop Committee (Committee Members)

3rd Tuesday of each month

7:00 - 8:30 pm Bethany Baptist

Church

District Roundtable (Adult Leaders)

2nd Thursday of each month

7:00 - 8:30 pm LDS Church 862

45th Ave NE (just

off Center St NE)

*Check the Troop Calendar and e-mails for exceptions, changes or cancellations. Attending Troop meetings is required. This is where Scouting skills are learned, honed, and practiced; trips and activities are planned, including meal/menu planning; and advancement is achieved. Sometimes, merit badges are worked on with a

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Counselor during a meeting. The Scout must always bring their Boy Scout Handbook. We are guests at the Bethany Baptist Church. Often, there are other groups meeting at the church. We try to be quiet and courteous of others when arriving and departing in order not to disturb other groups.

FINANCES Troop 19 collects a $35.00 joining fee, in addition to the BSA registration fee, and Boy’s Life magazine subscription. The BSA registration and Boy’s Life subscription are prorated based on the month you join. These fees are set by the BSA National committee.

Each scout has his own scout account. This account is maintained by the Troop Treasurer and the money in it can only be spent on scout-related equipment or activities. Money is added to the account when the scout earns it during a fundraiser, or when money is deposited by the scout or parent.

If a scout quits Troop 19 or ages out (has turned 18) his scout account will be handled in one of the following ways:

1. A scout who turns 18 and stays with the Troop as a registered adult leader may continue using his personal account for scout-related purposes.

2. If the scout does not re-charter with the Troop, he can no longer use his scout account funds. After one

year, his account is forfeited to the Troop.

If a scout’s brother quits or leaves the Troop, the account will go to the brother who stays.

A scout who transfers to another troop will have the money in his scout account transferred to his new troop, simply by providing our treasurer the name and address of the treasurer of the new troop. Our treasurer will write a check made out to the new Troop and mail it immediately. Scout accounts will not be cashed out to families upon leaving the Troop unless the funds were from family deposits. Fundraised money will remain with the Troop.

The Troop will reimburse volunteer adult drivers for transporting scouts to outings when their services are necessary to accommodate the number of scouts attending and the trip is more than 25 miles round-trip from the church. The reimbursement amount is the actual cost for fuel, meaning the adult driver must fill up at departure and fill up upon arrival. Turn in fuel receipts to the troop treasurer for reimbursement. Two signatures are required on all checks written from the Troop. The accounts will include three - Committee Chair, Treasurer, and one additional Committee Member chosen by the Committee Chair.

Up to four registered adult leaders are allowed to make purchases against the scout store account for our Troop – the Advancement Chair, the Committee Chair, the Treasurer, and the Scoutmaster.

The Troop will attempt to maintain a scholarship fund to be used to assist families who need financial assistance for a scout to participate in basic scout functions, summer camp, and monthly outings. The scout is expected to actively participate in all aspects of scouting, primarily coming to meetings, and take advantage of all fund-raising opportunities to be eligible for scholarship money.

No scout should ever be turned away from an outing or activity due to a lack of finances. If financial assistance is required, please contact the Scoutmaster or Committee Chair.

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These fees are set by the National BSA and are subject to change at any time.

Yearly Recharter Fee

Boy’s Life Magazine Subscription

Friends of Scouting

(FOS)

$24.00 (prorated if less than a year - mandatory)

$12.00 (prorated if less than a year - optional)

Family Donation

The Troop pays for awards, some equipment, and various administrative tasks through Troop treasury. The major source of income for Troop 19 comes through our annual Christmas tree recycling fundraiser (discussed below.)

UNIFORMS Uniforms are required for all scout meetings and activities. The BSA Official Uniform is described in the Boy Scout Handbook. Uniforms and insignia may be purchased at the following locations:

BSA Scout Office

4395 Liberty Road S Salem OR 97302

Phone: (503) 581-6601

Nor'West Scout Shop

Cascade Pacific Council Service Center 2145 S.W. Naito Parkway

Portland OR 97201 Phone: (503) 243-5022

Fax: (503) 243-5090

For more information on uniform costs, visit www.scoutstuff.org. Shoulder epaulets and a neckerchief will be provided to a new scout upon joining Troop 19.

A Troop hat will be provided to the new scout when he earns his “Scout” badge. If a scout transfers into the Troop and has already earned his Scout rank, a hat will be provided at the time of transfer.

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Two levels of uniform are recognized:

• Class "A" BSA Shirt, T19 Hat, T19 Neckerchief, BSA Belt, long pants or shorts with belt loops. No athletic shorts or sweatpants are to be worn at meetings or outings.

• Class "B" T19 T-Shirt, T19 Sweatshirt, (a plain dark green t-shirt and sweatshirt will substitute), long pants or shorts with belt loops; no athletic shorts.

The Class A uniform (also referred to as a Field uniform) is worn at every Troop. It is also worn at any official or formal event, such as a Cub Scout Crossover, Scouting for Food, or a Flag Ceremony. The Class A uniform is always worn when leaving for and returning from an outing. It is also worn when participating in any Council sponsored fundraising event.

The Class B uniform (also referred to as an Activity uniform) may be worn after arriving at an outing or whenever an event requires an activity where the Class A uniform could get dirty or damaged, such as spreading bark dust, playing games, or handling trees at the Christmas tree fundraiser.

BOY SCOUT HANDBOOK The Boy Scout Handbook needs to be purchased immediately. Scouts are required to bring their Boy Scout Handbook to all meetings and outings. The handbook provides space to record a scout’s progress in achieving the ranks of scouting. Before advancing rank, the handbook will be reviewed for evidence that the scout completed the requirements.

The scout is responsible for maintaining current documentation. Before signing up for a Scoutmaster Conference or Board of Review, the scout should make sure he has met all requirements for the rank that he is seeking and that his service and camping logs are up to date. It is disappointing for an excited scout preparing for advancement, to be turned away due to poor record keeping. Parents can help their scout by checking his progress and ensuring he learns good record keeping habits. We recommend that parents periodically make a photo copy of the advancement section of their son's scout book in case the book is lost.

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT At a minimum, each scout needs to have the following:

Day pack (school backpack type) Backpack (for overnight hikes into the wilderness) Warm sleeping bag Sleeping pad Boots or suitable shoes and socks for hiking Mess kit (plate, bowl, cup, knife, fork and spoon)

Scout Essentials as listed in the Boy Scout Handbook:

Pocketknife First aid kit Extra clothing Rain gear Canteen or water bottle Flashlight Trail food Matches and fire starter Sun protection Map and compass

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While most new Scouts are excited to participate in camp outs, a poorly prepared Scout can make for a miserable trip. Outings are seldom canceled due to inclement weather, so it is important to pack extra clothes and rain gear. Tents and tarps cane be checked out from the Troop in most cases.

TROOP EQUIPMENT All Troop and Patrol gear should be cleaned ON THE OUTING and put away clean in the Troop Room. Gear will be unloaded from the Troop trailer, dried, inspected by the Quartermaster and returned to the Troop Room. Scouts are not dismissed until this task is complete. There may however, be some items that a scout will take home to clean, such as tents and tarps. Equipment that is removed from the Troop Room for cleaning/drying purposes will be checked out to the scout responsible for these actions. Equipment must be returned to the Quartermaster for inspection at the Troop meeting following the outing; a scout who checks out any equipment in this manner, or borrows a troop tent for the outing is financially responsible for the equipment. A scout that forgets to return their equipment to the next meeting may need to call their parents and ask them to bring it when they pick up their Scout. It is imperative that equipment be returned as soon as possible so we are not short for the next outing.

SCOUT COURTESY 1. Scouts agree to allow two adults and one youth leader to review their belongings if there is suspicion of

contraband. 2. A scout is not allowed to touch another scout's belongings without permission from the owner. 3. Requests from youth leaders will be followed without question or hesitation so long as the scout does

not reasonably feel that the request will endanger his safety. A scout should contact an adult leader immediately if he feels such a request is unsafe.

4. If a scout feels a request is unreasonable (as opposed to unsafe), it may be brought to the attention of the Senior Patrol Leader after it has been completed. The Scoutmaster will be involved only if the Senior Patrol Leader cannot satisfy the scout or the scout has questioned the request of the Senior Patrol Leader.

5. A scout shall request permission to enter another Patrol or Troop's campsite. 6. A scout will not enter any tent other than their own without permission of all tent mates. 7. All scouts shall immediately become silent and pay attention when the Scout Sign is held up. Scouts

will show they have seen the sign by holding up the sign until the leader begins talking. 8. On overnight outings all scouts will be in their sleeping bags and silent once "lights out" has been

announced. 9. Electronic items are only allowed for scouting purposes on outings – looking up requirements, using to

teach skills to scouts, etc. If these items are being used for unapproved purposes, they will be confiscated until we return to Salem. This includes radios, CD players, MP3 players, portable DVD players, electronic games, cell phones etc. The Troop is not responsible for lost or damaged electronic items.

10. Excessive candy should not be allowed on Troop outings. A scout will not be allowed to skip a meal just to dine on candy later.

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TROOP ADMINISTRATION The Scouting program of Troop 19 is organized by the boys and supported by the adult leadership.

The Chartered Organization The Troop is chartered by the Bethany Baptist Church, which means the Church is authorized by the Cascade Pacific Council to sponsor our Troop. The Troop’s Chartered Organization Representative facilitates the relationship between the Church and the Troop.

The church does not attempt to impose its religious beliefs on the Troop. It does, however, affirm the high moral and ethical standards taught by the scouting program, including the twelfth point of the Scout Law: A Scout is Reverent. Scouting believes in the right of all to worship God in their own way. The Troop Committee The Parent Committee provides policy and administrative support for the Troop. It is composed of adult volunteers. The Committee Chair is selected by the Chartered Organization Representative.

The Parent Committee selects the Scoutmaster, controls the financial operation of the Troop, and supports the advancement program and other organizational policy and administrative functions.

Parents are strongly encouraged to get involved. If you’re interested in joining the Troop Committee, contact the Committee Chair. Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters The Scoutmaster is responsible for the operation of the Troop. He is assisted by the Assistant Scoutmaster(s) who may provide the following specific and general roles:

• Camping coordination • First year scouts orientation • Patrols concept • Rank advancement opportunities • Eagle Advancement Coordinator • Other general or specific requirements as needed

Each adult leader is expected to live up to the standards of conduct as set forth in the Scout Oath, the Scout Law, the Scout Slogan, the Scout Motto, and the Outdoor Code just like each scout.

Patrol Leaders Council (PLC) Every May and November the scouts elect new youth leaders. Each patrol elects its own Patrol Leader, who in turn appoints his own Assistant Patrol Leader. The Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) is elected by the entire Troop, with Scoutmaster approval, and appoints the Assistant Patrol Leader (ASPL). All positions begin their term of office the first meeting in June and December. These youth leaders, and other Troop officers, provide the planning, organization and administration for the operation of the Troop. Both the SPL and ASPL hold office for six months with the option to extend to one year, at the discretion of the Scoutmaster. This planning and operation is done with the guidance of the Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters. The PLC plans and runs the Troop's activities.

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The Patrol Leaders Council is made up of: The Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL) Junior Assistant Scoutmaster Patrol Leaders Assistant Patrol Leaders Quartermaster Troop Guides Instructors

Other Troop wide youth leaders who do not make up part of the PLC:

Order of the Arrow Troop Representative Librarian Historian Den Chief Chaplain Aide Scribe**

**Note that while the Scribe is not a voting member of the PLC, he is required to be present at PLC meetings to record the minutes. The rest of the junior leaders will be invited to occasional PLC meetings for instructions. For a description of each position, see Position Descriptions later in this handbook.

Who To Call Generally, questions can be answered by the scout’s SPL or ASPL. If that resource is either unavailable or unable to assist, scouts and their families may call the Scoutmaster or any of the Assistant Scoutmasters. When a scout family has a concern regarding a policy of the Troop, that question should be directed to the Committee Chair.

FUNDRAISING Fundraisers are necessary to keep the Troop operating and a good way for scouts to earn money towards their scout account. Here are some of the fundraisers in which we participate. Christmas Tree Recycling This is how the Troop earns most of its money for operation. Normally held the weekends after Christmas and New Years, the Fundraising Coordinator organizes this event each year. All scouts and their families are expected to participate in this once a year event. Those who wish to opt out of participating will be charged a $55 opt-out fee. The scout earns a portion of the money for his scout account.

Christmas Tree Recycling – ½ of total profit goes to the Troop, ½ is divided amongst the scouts based on the number of hours they work. Scouts are expected to participate in this fundraiser by working at least 2 shifts.

Popcorn and Chocolate & Beef stick Sales – The amount of profit a scout makes is set by the Council, all goes to the scout based on individual sales.

Other fundraiser distributions will be determined when planning for that fundraiser.

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Council Sponsored Fundraisers The Cascade Pacific Council sponsors two annual fund raising events - the Popcorn Sale in the fall and the Candy Sale in the spring. Profits for these sales go to the Council for its expenses with a percentage (around 30%) awarded to the boys. Troop 19 does not keep any of the proceeds from these fundraisers.

Friends of Scouting (FOS) The Cascade Pacific Council sponsors a major annual fund raising drive that benefits all Council-wide activities and programs. This includes summer camps, Council office upkeep, and training of adult and youth leaders. This FOS effort runs between December and February of each year. A pledge card will be handed out to each family asking for a single donation or a monthly payment option. One of the Troop goals for each year is to meet our FOS goal. One requirement is that 75% of Troop families meet the FOS pledge, along with a set monetary goal. Please support this worthwhile cause. If we meet our goal the Troop will receive free merit badges and advancement badges. It also allows the Troop to camp at Council facilities for free during the off season.

SCOUT ADVANCEMENT The ultimate responsibility for a scout's advancement success lies with the individual scout. The parent that supports their scout by encouraging participation and involvement helps the scout progress. Scouts can and should receive help at home.

Advancement requirements are not to be signed off by parents, but rather the skill must be demonstrated to a fellow scout who has obtained the rank of Star or higher or an adult leader, and will be signed off by that leader. Once the scout has completed all the requirements for the rank he is seeking, he advises the Advancement Chair who records his progress and ensures he receives his rank badge at the Court of Honor Ceremony. The cut-off for submitting completed advancement or merit badge information to the Advancement Chair is the Tuesday prior to the Court of Honor at 5:00 pm.

This Troop follows the National BSA Policy which in summary says that if a scout is working on a merit badge, and the requirements for that merit badge changes on January 1 of a new year, the scout must do or re-do those requirements to adhere to the new requirements. Parents are responsible for initiating and planning the Eagle ceremony for their scout. The Troop will assist as requested by the parents.

MERIT BADGE PROGRAM The Merit Badge program is one of Boy Scouting’s basic character-developing tools. Earning merit badges gives a scout the self-confidence that comes from overcoming obstacles to achieve a goal. Through the merit badge program, a scout learns career skills, develops socially, and may develop physical skills and hobbies used for his lifetime. The steps to follow in the merit badge program are outlined in the current Boy Scout Merit Badge Requirements Book available at the Scout Store.

When a scout is interested in working on a merit badge, he asks permission from the Scoutmaster. The Scoutmaster gives him a merit badge application form (blue card) and the name of the counselor. The Scoutmaster signs the application, which tells the counselor that the scout has permission to work on the badge. Once completed, the scout will be responsible for returning the merit badge application form to the Scoutmaster to sign and then will give it to the Advancement Chairperson.

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If the scout loses his application before he turns it in, he may be required to complete the requirements again, as his application is the only record kept until completion.

Summer camp provides an opportunity to earn several different merit badges, including some that are difficult to find counselors for.

COURTS OF HONOR A Court of Honor is a ceremony where scouts are recognized for their achievements in both rank advancement and merit badges. This is very important to a scout, so parents need to attend to show support of their scout and his commitment to scouting, even if he is not receiving an award. Troop 19 holds four Courts of Honor per year, traditionally February, May, August and November (months my change based on scheduling). A Court of Honor is planned and emceed by one or two older scouts.

TROOP CAMPING & OUTINGS Troop 19 is an active troop with at least one planned outing or activity each month. All trips depart and return to the Queen of Peace Church parking lot (unless otherwise noted). When scouts return, they will have an opportunity to phone home and request a ride. Since we will announce approximate return times, please make yourselves available to pick up your scout. Adult leaders cannot leave until all boys are picked up. It is important that you be on time to pick up your child.

A parent-signed permission slip is required for outings. The permission slip must be submitted to the leader in charge prior to the outing for proper planning to occur. If a scout or parent signs up for a trip, submits the permission slip, and then is unable to attend, the Scoutmaster must be notified at least 3 days prior to the trip. A refund will be promptly made. Cancellations less than 3 days prior to the trip and all no-shows, will not be eligible for a refund of fees paid or deducted from the scout’s account. Charges will be limited to the cost of meals (currently $3.00 per person per meal) and the adult and scout’s portion of any payment for reservations that must be made based on the number of attendees.

A scout with a balance more than $20.00 in “the red”, will not be allowed to go on an outing until their scout account is less than $20.00 “in the red.” Exceptions may be considered and approved by the Scoutmaster only.

This Troop allows four outings a year for boys 14 and older that are of a higher adventure type, in addition to the regular monthly outing for all scouts. A scout must be 14 years old BEFORE the first day of the planned outing to be eligible to attend.

Medical Any scout using medication on an outing must give the medication to the adult leader in charge for dispensing. The adult leader in charge must ensure the information/instructions concerning the medication is noted on the signed Troop Permission Form. The adult leader must complete the Medication Log regarding the administration of the medication to the scout.

Medications must be in their original container. No deviation from the instructions on the original container will occur without a note from the scout’s physician.

Miscellaneous Activities proposed by adults must be pre-approved by the Parent Committee. This includes outings, fundraisers, service projects, etc.

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An advance payment for food purchases for outings is allowed when requested of the Treasurer by the scout responsible for purchasing the food. Electronics (cell phones, games, portable DVD players, etc) should only be used for approved uses at a scout function. The Scoutmaster or leader in charge will hold these items until the end of the scout function if a scout uses them at unapproved times. Trailers and campers are not allowed on outings for camping – only tents.

The primary method of communication in this Troop is via e-mail. Patrol Leaders are expected to implement phone calling systems or e-mail distribution lists to keep communication between scouts open. Troop meetings are 1½ hours in length throughout the year, from 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm on Mondays.

Food & Meal Planning Scouts will plan menus, select a cook and a food buyer, and prepare a duty roster during Troop meetings. All menus must be submitted to and approved by the Scoutmaster or an Assistant Scoutmaster no later than the Troop meeting prior to the camp-out or outing. Shopping for food is a part of the learning and growing experience for Scouts and should not be done by parents. We always try to have an experienced Scout shop with a newer Scout. Shoppers have final say on what food is selected, but should not deviate from the menu except for cost, quantity or other legitimate purposes. Shoppers will be reimbursed up to $3 per meal per person. If you go over your budget, you will not be reimbursed for the overage amount.

Trip Transportation Every trip or outing requires two adults who normally drive, but we usually need additional adult volunteers to transport boys and gear. In order to be properly covered by BSA insurance, the Troop must know a little information about you and your vehicles that will be used to transport scouts and/or equipment. You will be asked to provide insurance, driver license number, vehicle information, and have current youth protection training (YPT).

If you would like to spend the night, you are more than welcome. This is a good opportunity to see what happens on an outing and to assist. It’s always nice to see parents come out and spend some time with their son. We do ask that this be as much of observing and as little interaction as possible in order to enable the youth to lead.

In the event that not enough drivers can be found, some scouts will have to be sent home (we don’t anticipate this will ever happen, but it could).

Outing Fees Outing fees are based on the number of meals needing to be prepared, the cost of mileage reimbursement to adult drivers, and any additional cost such as a campsite fee or lodging fee, etc.

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SUMMER CAMP Summer camp is the highlight of the year for most scouts. It is a great week spent learning new skills, earning rank advancement, earning multiple merit badges and making new friends. We usually travel to summer camp in July and spend one full week there. The scouts vote to select their choice of summer camp to attend a year or more in advance, in order to secure a reservation. This is usually the most costly trip of the year and requires advance planning. Each year the summer camp location, along with appropriate details, will be made available in the Troop Calendar and at Parent Committee and Troop meetings. Normal costs range between $$300 -$350 per scout and these costs could go up. We won’t know a firm cost for summer camp until around May of each year. Be aware of the following tentative dates:

Date Fees and Notes

March 1 Deposit of $75.00 due for each scout

April 15 Campership application (financial aid form) due to the

Scoutmaster

May 1 Drop dead date for Scoutmaster to submit

Campership application to the Council Office

May 1 Full camp payment due for all those not applying for a

Campership

The dates are dependent on the particular camp; deposit and final payment dates may change. If you have any questions ask the Scoutmaster or Outings Coordinator.

New scouts need to contact the Outings Coordinator as soon as possible to make arrangements for fees and space if they want to go to summer camp. All scouts should be encouraged to attend summer camp. No scout should be denied the opportunity due to lack of finances. Talk to the Outings Coordinator for a Campership application if financial aid is needed. Campership applications must be submitted by April 15th.

TRAINING Merit Badge Counselors must submit an application to the Troop Committee Chair, have the background check completed by the Council, complete Youth Protection Training and Merit Badge Counselor training BEFORE working with Scouts.

Adult leaders must submit an application to the Troop Committee Chair, have the background check completed by the Council, and complete the New Leader Essentials, Leader Specific Training, and Youth Protection Training BEFORE working with scouts. Each year, up to four boys will be selected to attend National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT). The scout pays the cost of attending (NYLT). The Troop will reimburse ½ the cost upon completion of the course.

The Scoutmaster provides Youth Leadership Training every 6 months in January and July to scouts elected to new leadership positions. This training is mandatory for scouts to hold a leadership position.

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An adult that attends Wood Badge Training must pay the total training cost at registration. Once the adult earns their Wood Badge beads, they will be reimbursed 1/2 the cost of the training.

VOLUNTEERS The Boy Scouts of America and Troop 19 depend on the involvement of adults to provide a worthwhile scouting experience. Everybody is incredibly busy with an ever-increasing demand on his or her time.

Don’t assume that someone else will ensure your son’s pleasant experience in a program such as scouting. We need YOU to be involved to make it happen.

There are many ways to help Troop 19 in scouting. Many positions are required and some are already filled, but adult volunteers will be moving on so if you’re interested, learn from someone already doing the job by volunteering right now! If you need assistance, ask our Committee Chair and she will help you.

Youth LEADERSHIP POSITION DUTIES

All Youth Leader Positions

• Fulfill individual office requirements to receive rank advancement credit. • Understand duties of office and actively work to fulfill those duties.

• Work with Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmasters, Troop Committee Members, Troop Leaders and members in a cooperative and positive manner to make the Troop run well.

• Attend Troop youth leader training. • Always be in proper uniform. • Set an example for the Troop by earning advancements and living by the Scout Oath and Law. • No scout may hold more than one office, other than Den Chief, at any one time.

All Troop Officers Senior Patrol Leaders (SPL) and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL) will serve for six months, with the option of extending for one year, at the discretion of the Scoutmaster. All other officers shall hold office from January through June or from July through December.

The SPL may not be re-elected. He may re-run for the positions after an absence of one year and may not be elected SPL more than twice. All other offices may be re-elected or re-appointed for no more than a second consecutive term.

No scout may hold any one office for more than a total of two years. Removal from Office Any scout holding a Troop office may be removed at any time for the following reasons:

• Lack of commitment to his office or the Troop. • Violation of the Boy Scout Oath or Law or Troop bylaws and directives. • Violation of City, State and Federal laws. • Due to other responsibilities. • By resignation.

If a scout is removed from office before his regular term is over, the Scoutmaster will appoint a replacement until such time that an election can be held.

Credit for leadership position towards advancement will NOT be given to scouts who do not fulfill the

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requirements of their office and who do not follow these expectations:

• Troop meeting attendance – miss no more than three meetings in a six month period • Outings – attend no less than four outings in a six month period • Patrol Leaders Council (PLC) - 100% attendance required • Uniform – wear Class A to 100% of Troop meetings • Bi-annual leaders training – attendance is mandatory

Position Descriptions The Senior Patrol Leader is elected by the scouts to represent them as the top youth leader in the troop. He reports to the Scoutmaster. Duties include:

• Run the troop meetings, events, activities and the annual program planning conference. • Ensure Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL) attends in his absence. • Run the PLC meeting.

• Appoint other troop youth leaders with the advice and counsel of the Scoutmaster. • Assign duties and responsibilities to junior leaders. • Assist the Scoutmaster with junior leader training. • Set a good example. • Enthusiastically wear the scout uniform correctly. • Live by the Scout Oath and Law. • Show scout spirit.

The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader reports to the Senior Patrol Leader and 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 is in charge in the absence of the Senior Patrol Leader, or when called upon. He also provides leadership to other junior leaders in the troop. Duties include:

• Help the Senior Patrol Leader lead meetings and activities. • Run the troop in the absence of the Senior Patrol Leader. • Help train and supervise the troop Scribe, Quartermaster, Instructor, Librarian, Historian and Chaplain

Aide. • Serve as a member of the PLC. • Set a good example. • Enthusiastically wear the scout uniform correctly. • Live by the Scout Oath and Law. • Show scout spirit.

The Junior Assistant Scoutmaster serves in the capacity of an Assistant Scoutmaster except where legal age and maturity are required. He must be at least 16 years old and not yet 18. He's appointed by the Scoutmaster because of his leadership ability and reports to the Scoutmaster. Duties include:

• Function as an Assistant Scoutmaster. • Perform duties as assigned by the Scoutmaster. • Set a good example. • Enthusiastically wear the scout uniform correctly. • Live by the Scout Oath and Law. • Show scout spirit.

The Order of the Arrow Troop Representative is a youth liaison serving between the local OA lodge or chapter and his troop. In his troop he serves as a communication and programmatic link to the Arrowman and adult leaders who are not presently members of the Order. He does this in a fashion that strengthens the mission of the lodge and purpose of the Order. By setting a good example, he enhances the image of the Order as a service arm to his troop. He reports to the OA Chapter Vice Chief. Duties include:

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• Serve as a communication link between the lodge or chapter and the troop. • Encourage year round and resident camping in the troop. • Encourage older scout participation in high adventure programs. • Encourage scouts to actively participate in community service projects. • Assist with leadership skills training in the troop. • Encourage Arrowmen to assume leadership positions in the troop.

• Seal their membership in the Order by becoming Brotherhood members. • Set a good example. • Enthusiastically wear the scout uniform correctly. • Live by the Scout Oath and Law, as well as the OA Obligation. • Show scout spirit.

The Quartermaster keeps track of troop equipment and sees that it is in good working order. He reports to the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. Duties include:

• Keep records on patrol and troop equipment. • Make sure equipment is in good working condition. • Assign responsibility of equipment to scouts, making sure it's returned, and in good condition. • Make suggestions for new or replacement items. • Work with the adult Quartermaster of the Parent Committee. • Set a good example. • Enthusiastically wear the scout uniform correctly. • Live by the Scout Oath and Law. • Show scout spirit.

The Scribe keeps the troop records. He records the activities of the PLC and keeps a record of scout attendance, decisions made and assignments for duties. He reports to the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. Duties include:

• Attend and keeps a log of PLC meetings. • Record individual scout attendance. • Record individual scout advancement progress. • Set a good example. • Enthusiastically wear the scout uniform correctly. • Live by the Scout Oath and Law. • Show scout spirit.

The Librarian takes care of troop literature. He reports to the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. Duties include:

• Set up and take care of the troop library. • Add new or replacement items as needed. • Maintain library of learning resources (books, pamphlets, magazines, audiovisuals, merit badge books,

and merit badge counselor list) for the Troop. • Keep a system for checking books and pamphlets in and out. • Follow up on late returns. • Set a good example. • Enthusiastically wear the scout uniform correctly. • Live by the Scout Oath and Law. • Show scout spirit.

The Chaplain Aide works with the adult Troop Chaplain to meet the religious needs of scouts in the troop. He also works to promote the religious emblems program. He reports to the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. Duties include:

• Assist the adult Troop Chaplain with religious services at troop activities. • Promote the religious emblem program for scouts’ faith. • Make sure religious holidays are considered during troop program planning.

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• Help plan for religious observance in troop activities. • Set a good example. • Enthusiastically wear the scout uniform correctly. • Live by the Scout Oath and Law. • Show scout spirit.

The Historian keeps a historical record or scrapbook of troop activities. He reports to the Assistant Patrol Leader. Duties include:

• Gather pictures and facts about past troop activities and keeps them in a historical file or scrapbook. • Take care of troop trophies, ribbons and souvenirs of troop activities. • Keep information about former members of the troop. • Set a good example. • Enthusiastically wear the scout uniform correctly. • Live by the Scout Oath and Law. • Show scout spirit.

The Instructor teaches scouting skills. He reports to the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. Duties include:

• Teaches basic scouting skills in troop and patrols. • Sets a good example. • Enthusiastically wears the scout uniform correctly. • Lives by the Scout Oath and Law. • Shows scout spirit.

The Troop Guide works with new scouts. He helps them feel comfortable and earn their First Class rank in their first year. He reports to the Assistant Scoutmaster for the new scout patrol in the troop. Duties include:

• Introduce new scouts to troop operations. • Guide new scouts through early scouting activities. • Serve as mentor for new scouts and assists them in forming relationships with older scouts. • Track progress of individual new scouts and reports to Assistant Scoutmaster their progress. • Teach basic scout skills. • Help plan and prepare activities for new scouts. • Attend PLC meetings with the patrol leader of the new scout patrol. • Assist the Assistant Scoutmaster with training. • Counsel individual scouts on scouting challenges. • Set a good example. • Enthusiastically wear the scout uniform correctly. • Live by the Scout Oath and Law. • Show scout spirit.

The Patrol Leader is the elected leader of his patrol. He represents his patrol on the PLC. He reports to the Senior Patrol Leader. The Patrol Leader for the new scout patrol will also work with the Troop Guide assigned to that patrol. Duties include:

• Appoint the Assistant Patrol Leader. • Represent the patrol on the PLC. • Plan and lead patrol meetings. • Help scouts advance • Act as the chief recruiter of new scouts. • Keep patrol members informed. • Know what his patrol members and other leaders can do. • Set a good example • Wear the scout uniform correctly • Live by the Scout Oath and Law • Show scout spirit.

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The Assistant Patrol Leader is appointed by the patrol and leads the patrol in his absence. He reports to the Patrol Leader. Duties include:

• Help the patrol leader plan and lead patrol meetings and activities. • Help him keep patrol members informed. • Help the patrol get ready for all troop activities. • Represent his patrol at PLC meetings when the Patrol Leader cannot attend.

The Den Chief works with the Cub Scouts, Webelos Scouts and Den Leaders in the Cub Scout Pack. He reports to the Den Leader in the Pack and Assistant Scoutmaster for the new scout patrol in the troop. Duties include:

• Know the purposes of Cub Scouting. • Help Cub Scouts advance through Cub Scout ranks. • Encourage Cub Scouts to join a Boy Scout troop upon graduation. • Assist with activities in the den meetings. • Is a friend to the boys in the den. • Help out at weekly den meetings and monthly pack meetings. • Meet with adult members of the den, pack and troop as necessary. • Set a good example. • Enthusiastically wear the scout uniform correctly. • Live by the Scout Oath and Law.

• Show scout spirit.