Can Scouts Complete Alternate Achievements?

[dcgian 10]

Last year, while our scouts were Wolves, we built tool boxes for one of the achievements that required them to build something. This year, one of the achievements says to build "tool boxes". The parents and scouts asked if we can build something else instead so the boys stay interested. Is that against the rules? I can't find any information on it anywhere. Thanks!

[infoscouter 11]

No, the BSA rules are very precise about the fact that no leader or unit can add to, subtract from or change any requirements.

 

That said, they don't have to do that achievement to earn the Bear badge, so you could skip it. Or, since they're Bear's now, they can be expected to do a higher level of work, so plan a more ambitious tool box,that requires them to make a more advanced finished product.

[dcgian 10]

Thanks for the reply. It helps to know that we cannot substitute, so perhaps we'll do another achievement as you suggested.

[gcan 10]

you COULD, though, build a 'tool box' and modify it a little bit to hold pencils/ craons, or a zillion other little things boys collect. It just says 'build tool box'- not necesarily the one in the book. Home depot has a kit for a tool box with holes for pencils... and if you ask nicely, lol, they will even schedule an evening just for your den/ pack to come in and build them for free!