Advancement Recognition (Webelos too)
Barry C Runnels (Barry_C_Runnels@MMACMAIL.JCCBI.GOV)
Fri, 15 Aug 1997 10:33:23 CDT
>However, recognition is given at nearly every Troop meeting for Scouts
>finishing merit badges or passing a board of review. We distribute rank
>patches and merit badges, but not cards. Cards are held and distributed
>at COH only.
I started doing this with my Webelos because they otherwise had to wait six
or seven weeks for a Pack meeting. After the Scout finishes his Activity
Pin, I presented it to him at the next Den meeting. I give the cards to the
CM at the Pack meeting so he can recognize them there. My guys love this.
The parents are used to arriving before the end of the meeting so they can
watch the boys receive the Pins and the boys enjoy getting them in front of
their own den. And if I miss a meeting, BOY DO I HEAR ABOUT IT!. I have
great Webelos.
As for our Troop. We present two merit badges to the Troop every month. But
the Scouts have to get a MB card from the SM first then call the councilor
for a meeting to set up a schedule. We don't hold any classes during Troop
meetings other than what the PLC might plan for the monthly theme like
First Aid or survival. Even then the Scout still must get his card then get
with the councilor before he can get credit. We do have some MB classes
before and after the Troop meetings but is because the Scouts set this up
with councilor before hand.
Compared to what I have seen here, our program seems a little hard, but the
Scouts have full control over their trail to Eagle. They know the system
and they progress at their rate. We provide the opportunity, but they have
to initiate the calls and schedules (with help if needed) to work for the
badge. We help and teach shy Scouts but what I am seeing is they are
learning from the other Scouts and they follow along.
I don't think the other methods are wrong, this is just our philosophy. One
of our ASPLs told us his best friend in another Troop, in two years has 26
MBs and has never had to contact a councilor. In fact he didn't understand
the concept. He just arrives at Troop meetings an hour early sits in what
ever class is going on at the time. I don't know if this is wrong, I just
don't know if this is what was intended.
I love this Scouting Stuff
Barry Runnels
"Mighty" Pack 339
Troop 386
Edmond OK
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City | 
