Re: retest at SM conf

In a message dated 9/28/98 9:46:14 AM, gnach@ISAT.COM wrote:

<<What is the collective wisdom about retesting a boy on RA requirements
at a later SM conference? Or maybe more clearly, is it appropriate to
expect and Eagle candidate (or Star & Life) to demonstrate a tautline,
clove or bowline (don't call it a rescue knot anymore) hitch? or to
explain the Heimlich manuver and "hurry cases"? >>

This is an extremely interesting question. You mentioned the experience of
retesting in your karate instruction. I once attended the finals of the
National Hunter/Jumper Competition in a horse show for youth. There were 100
finalists from throughout the nation; in the first cut reduced to 18. Then
they were given a number of additional tests to do. One was on the list but
never ever used "Dismount and remount your horse." And of the 18, 2
finalists couldn't do it! They had such huge horses (who look very pretty)
and were so used to getting helped up that they couldn't remount by
themselves.

Retesting is not allowed; that is clear. However, I think it is very
reasonable to expect Scouts to demonstrate a certain competence in basic
skills. Perhaps the PLC could determine that having that competence and being
able to demonstrate it is a requirement for serving in leadership positions.
At one time, Scouts in England had to demonstrate once a year all of the
requirements which they had completed.

So I would say that to demand retesting in the context of advancement and
denying advancement because of failing the retest is not allowed. However, to
demonstrate a continuing level of performance to continue to be a leader or to
truly demonstrate Scout Spirit is another matter, at least in my opinion.

Best wishes,

Neil Lupton

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