Re: Eagle project problem (additional)
Amick Robert (amick@SPOT.COLORADO.EDU)
Mon, 7 Oct 1996 18:08:31 -0600
Bruce, et al, raise some cogent points:
Is it possible that the candidate was not informed of the need for such
leadership by those who were in a position of responsibility to be sure
that he knew of the requirement? Was the leadership really required in
that situation? Is it possible that he simply forgot,
and when taken to task, in fear of his being denied the rank, added
the information? As Bruce notes, it would certainly not be the first time
this ever happened, especially among youth; but perhaps a larger question
looms...
More importantly, could the whole situation
possibly have been prevented by a little more
attention from the folks who are supposed to be serving as his
advisors/counselors in the conduct of the project? There seems to be a
lot of "negative reinforcement" present in this thread; as adults we are
here to help the Scouts and try to ensure that they don't make critical
errors which might jeopardize their standing in this vital process..
If they have enough dedication and ambition to try to complete the
process, do we not owe them every possible effort to ensure that they do
it within prescribed standards? My experience over 20 years of counseling
Eagles has been that most such errors are born in ignorance, not wilful
intent to circumvent requirements, and when clarified, are willingly
complied with by the Scout.
Proactive counseling is always preferable to reactive and punitive "after
the fact" scenarios. This after all is supposed to be an "ultimate"
experience for the Scout, not one which he will recall with questionable
memories. Sometimes you have to "bend over backwards" to help a Scout who
has "waited almost too long," but I would gladly do that anytime if they
truly want to complete the award and are eligible within prescribed
standards to do so.
Bob Amick, Explorer Advisor, High Adventure Explorer Post 72, Boulder, CO
and District Eagle Scout Project Counselor, Longs Peak Council
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City |
