Advancement
Advancement is the process by which youth members of the Boy Scouts of America progress from rank to rank and is the method by which we promote and encourage the ongoing involvement and commitment that keeps members coming back for more.
Unlike Cub Scouts, advancement in a Scouts BSA troop is self-paced. While we expect every Scout to achieve First Class, and will remove any barrier we can to help you earn your Eagle Scout rank, how fast and how far you go is ultimately up to you!
There are four steps to advancement in Scouts BSA: learning, testing, reviewing, and recognition.
Learning
For Scout rank, much of what you need to learn may have already been covered in Cub Scouts, if you were a member of a Cub Scout Pack. If you are new to Scouting, you are learning the core skills that make you a active member of a Troop, such as the Oath and Law, how to use a pocketknife and tie basic knots, how troops and patrols work, and how you advance in Scouts BSA.
For Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class, you learn all of the necessary technical skills to be a competent Scout, including character and leadership, citizenship, fitness, first aid, aquatics, nature, outdoor ethics, hiking, camping, cooking, navigation, use of camp tools and how to keep ourselves safe. Your Patrol Leader helps plan meetings and events to help you learn these skills, but you can always practice on your own.
For Star, Life and Eagle, much of learning is accomplished through completing one of 135 different merit badges. Twenty-one merit badges are required to earn Eagle. In addition, each rank also includes a requirement for leadership and service, culminating in your Eagle project.
Need advice? Want to start working on a merit badge? Ask your Scoutmaster for a Scoutmaster conference. They can help you get started.
Testing
In our troop, more experienced Scouts teach and test the less experienced Scouts. Any Scout over First Class can sign off most of the rank requirements for Scout, Tenderfoot, Second and First Class. Ask your Patrol Leader, Troop Guide or Senior Patrol Leader if you need help.
For merit badges, you will work with a merit badge counselor. Only an authorized counselor can sign you off for a merit badge.
Read the requirements carefully - we only expect what is written, no more, no less.
Reviewing
All ranks require a Scoutmaster conference to review what you have learned and experienced since the last time you met. Sometimes your Scoutmaster might ask you to demonstrate something you learned, or reflect back on your experiences. Your Scoutmaster is your coach and advisor, and best resource to help you be successful. You can always request a conference at any time, but most Scouts typically have one after they have completed all of their requirements for their rank. Once your Scoutmaster has reviewed your requirements with you and signed off any final requirements, you will be ready for your Board of Review.
For new Scouts earning Scout rank, the conference is the final step. For Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star and Life, you will then have a Board of Review with members of our Troop Committee. This is another opportunity to check in with the Scout, ask for feedback, and encourage reflection about their experiences so far and goals looking forward. Wear your best uniform, and be ready to talk about what you have learned.
For Eagle Scouts, your Board of Review is led by Scouters from across our area. Your Scoutmaster or Eagle Advisor can help you with this process.
Recognition
In our troop, we try to recognize Scouts as soon as possible, and also at a Court of Honor. These are great opportunities to celebrate your accomplishments with your family and fellow Scouts.
