Re: Advancement Issues
Joseph Alessi (JosephAlessi@COMPUSERVE.COM)
Thu, 4 Feb 1999 10:50:51 -0500
I've finally waded through my backlog of digests, and thought
I'd chime in on some of the ongoing topics.
1. Swimming waivers
I agree that we should do everything possible to help a scout
pass the first class swim requirements. The step by step
approach that was proposed is an excellent guide, ASSUMING THAT
YOU HAVE A COMPETENT TEACHER TO FOLLOW IT. On the other hand,
the rules are clear that the swimming requirements can be waived
by the troop committee. Unlike the other waivers for
disabilities, there are no documentation requirements, leaving
this entirely up to the discretion of the committee. I
would like to see a unit use the detailed approach to try to
get a scout to overcome his fear and learn enough to potentially
save his own life someday, but I for one won't get too worked
up if a troop committee signs off based on comments from the
scout, his leaders, and his parents.
Note that I have no problems considering phobias as "real"
disabilities. Someone asked if we would allow a scout who was
afraid to camp to advance. The answer is yes. He would, =
however, have to follow the procedures outlined for alternate
rank advancement, the key points of which are:
* A clear and concise medical statement concerning the Scout's
disabilities must be submitted by a physician licensed to practice
medicine. In the alternative, an evaluation statement certified by an
educational administrator may be submitted. The medical statement must
state the doctor's opinion that the Scout cannot complete the
requirement(s) because of a permanent disability.
* The Scout, his parents, or leaders must submit to the council
advancement committee, a written request that the Scout be allowed to
complete alternative requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class, or First
Class rank. The request must explain the suggested alternate requirements=
in sufficient detail so as to allow the advancement committee to make a
decision. The request must also include the medical statement required in=
paragraph two above. The written request for alternate requirements must =
be
submitted to and approved by the local council prior to completing
alternate requirements. =
* The Scout must complete as many of the regular requirements as his=
ability permits before applying for alternate requirements. =
As you can see, these are pretty high hurdles to overcome.
2. Camping merit badge requirements.
In regards to the 20 days and nights, the "in a tent you
have pitched" requirement is critical. Scott Mace is =
correct in that no where in the advancement guidelines
does it state that only activities that take place after
you have a signed blue card can be used to meet requirements.
Also, no where does it state that only activities that
occurred after you are a boy scout can be counted. I would
allow cub scout camping, if the scout can satisfy me that
he actually pitched the tent himself (not with the help of
his parent, his den leader, or as a den).
3. Life rank and new changes
Finally, Laura Hix asked about the Eagle requirements
for a scout who becomes life before 4/1/99. The rule
is *FOR EVERY BOY SCOUT AT EVERY RANK ONLY THE NEW
REQUIREMENTS MAY BE USED AFTER 4/1/99. It doesn't
matter when he started. It doesn't matter what book
he has. It doesn't matter what rank he currently is.
It doesn't matter if he's 99.99999% complete under the
old requirements. After 3/31/1999, only the new =
requirements (note that the SM conference should
be before 3/31/99, but the BOR can be after). Also
remember the "special dispensation" for explorers
(old requirements until 12/31/99, then can't continue
to advance with BSA ranks).
YIS
Joseph A. Alessi in Ozwin 2.21
JosephAlessi@Compuserve.com
Vice Chair - Program, Lafayette District
ASM Troop 313, Cradle of Liberty Council
Adviser to the Treasurer, Unami Lodge
I used to be an Owl
