Troop 508 Manual
April 2000 Edition
Boy Scouts of America

TROOP 508 HANDBOOK
Edition: January 2005
GENERAL
Troop
508 is owned and operated by the Chartering Organization (Woodhaven
Presbyterian Church, Irving, Tx at this time) and is operating in compliance
and is conforming to the policies of the Boy Scouts of America in their various
publications.
This
guide has been assembled to provide additional guidance to the Scouts, Parents,
Troop Committee and Scoutmaster in the operations of Troop 508. As policies and programs are developed,
changes, additions and modifications will be made to this guide. Changes to
this guide will be approved by a majority of the Committee present and the change
dated.
This guide contains policies and procedures current as of the date indicated below and has been approved by the Troop Committee.
Date: September 2006
Jimmy Bellew
Committee Chairman
HISTORY:
The Charter of Troop 508
Mitch Barker, George Gray, Jerry Stephens, and Rev. Ernest Helsley at a
meeting of the session of Woodhaven Presbyterian Church, August 26, 1962,
approved that action would be taken to form a Boy Scout Troop. The church
was granted it’s first annual Troop 508 Charter thru the Boy Scouts of
America beginning on October 1, 1962 “to carry on the Boy Scout program for
character development, citizenship training, mental and physical fitness.”
First charted in 1962 to Woodhaven Presbyterian Church, Troop 508 has been noted throughout its history as being an outstanding organization and one of the better Boy Scout Troops in our area. Throughout its existence there have been many outstanding Scoutmaster's, including:
Mitch Barker 1963-1965
Sterling Bradley 1966
David White 1966
Blackie Marks 1967
Norman Rozell 1968
Jack Graham 1969
George Gray 1970
Bob Hootman 1971
'Indian George' Alford 1972-1974
Dwight Sensabough 1975-1976
Jim Bell 1977-1978
Herb Boyd 1979-1985
Mart Hamilton 1985
Jerry Wicker 1986-1988
Scott Pohl 1989-1992
Roger Knapp 1993-1994
Bob Harris 1995-1996
Randall Svajda 1997-1998
Carter Hallmark 1999-2000
Richard Gamble 2001-2002
Roland Jeter 2003-2005
Dean Calvert 2006-
The most famous Scoutmaster was "Indian George" Alford (Chief Iron Eyes), who lead and inspired us with his extraordinary wisdom and sense of humor. "Indian George", born December 29, 1914, died August 7, 1984, was a wonderful Comanche Indian who devoted his life to others.
From almost the beginning, the troop set an image of being one that took long trips during the summer. It purchased its first bus in 1966 (the Green Weeny) but a short time and many breakdowns-later, it was traded for a second bus (the White Elephant). The troop adopted the logo of the "Roadrunner" about this time and had it painted on the side of that bus. Many repairs later, the most recent bus was purchased to continue the tradition of long "high adventure" trips. During this period, the troop went to the Grand Canyon (three times), Colorado, Brazos River, Washington D.C., and many other exciting places. This bus finally died and a trailer made from a pickup truck bed was purchased and used. A second trailer was purchased in 1993 and is the main trailer now.
In order to finance these trips, the Scouts had projects of selling nuts, candy , light bulbs, fire extinguishers, fertilizer, pop corn, and trash bags, plus held paper drives, and rummage sales.
Many scouts have come and gone throughout the years, they advanced, achieved and experienced things otherwise not available to them. During this time, many Eagles have signed the Eagle Board, some to go on to achieve several palms. These include:
|
Hayden Meredith Jr. 1965 Joel Wicker 1988 Chris Strait 1989 Brian Hamilton 1990 Colby Adamson 1990 Nathan Gottlieb 1991 Tommy Proctor 1991 Bryan Leubert 1991 Al Voelkle 1991 JD Kim 1991 Sam Shamburger 1991 Will Ezel 1992 Mark Massey 1992 Nathan Brann 1992 Blake Rice 1992 Zach Pohl 1992 Barry Fry 1992 JS Kim 1992 Chad Hooten 1993 David Wheeler 1993 Taik Rha 1993 Ben Husa 1994 Jett Thomason 1994 Colby Rowe 1995 |
Mike Baker 1995 Jonathan Owens 1995 John Clay 1996 Steven Massey 1996 Josh Archer 1996 Brad Ross 1996 Chad Ross 1996 James Kang 1997 Nathan Smith 1998 Tyler Horner 1998 Andrew Buchner 1998 Adam Harris 1998 Ben Johansen 1998 Dustin Askins 1998 Keith Green 1998 Joshua Choe 1998 Doug Pohl 1999 Jack Teel 1999 Phillip Yu 1999 Trey Parham 2001 Tommy Lanier 2001 Trey DuBois 2001 Carter Hallmark 2001 James Janscha 2001 Michael Dean 2002 Ian Svajda 2002 Tommy Poynter 2002 Scott Moore 2002 Andrew VanOrsdale 2002 Tanner Glover 2002 Aaron Ivey 2003 Eric Wilhelm 2003 Madison Jeter 2003 Matthew Adamson 2003 Matthew Curry 2003 Alex Caudill 2003 John Gray 2004 Johnathan Eitson 2004 Naveen Patisipu 2004 Michael Montoya 2004 David Visi 2004 Kareem Jabar 2004 Buck Theiland 2004 Evan Gamble 2005Shane Byrne 2005 Colin Byrne 2005 Patrick Romeo 2005 Salman Bhai 2005 Bryce Parham 2005 Michael Gaines 2005 |
SECTION
I- ORGANIZATION
Troop
508 is a participating member of the Circle Ten Council, Western Star District,
Boy Scouts of America. Its organization consists of a Chartered Organization, a
Troop Committee, Adult leaders, the Troop Organization, and the Troop Parents.
A.
CHARTERED ORGANIZATION (Sponsor)
1. The Chartered Organization for Troop
508 is the Woodhaven Presbyterian Church, 3650 N. O'Connor, Irving, Tx 75062.
2. The Chartered Organization is
responsible for providing a safe meeting place, and ensuring through carefull
monitoring and screening that there is adequate, trained leadership that model
and teach the principles of scouting.
B.
TROOP COMMITTEE
1.
Functions:
Administration and support of the Scoutmaster and the troop.
2.
Responsibilities: The
Troop Committee shall have the duties and responsibilities described in the
BSA"Troop Committee Guidebook." All Committee members shall be
registered with the Boy Scouts of America as leaders.
3.
Meetings: The
Committee shall meet monthly. Day, time and location shall be established by
the committee. The meetings are open
and attendance is encouraged by all parents and other interested adults. A schedule of meetings and their locations
shall be provided to all parents of scouts.
4.
Conduct of Meetings:
A quorum of no less than three registered members will be required to hold a
Committee meeting. Meetings will be
conducted in accordance with the "Troop Committee Guidebook." Minutes
of each Committee meeting will be recorded by the Secretary or representative
and a copy furnished to each of the Troop's families.
5.
Committee Decisions.
A vote shall be taken on all matters that require Committee approval with
approval resulting from a simple majority of all registered members
present. Decisions establishing or
affecting policy or procedures for the Troop shall be identified and noted in
the meeting minutes to be added to or changed in this guide.
6.
Organization of the
Troop Committee. The Troop Committee shall consist of parents or other adults,
18 or over, interested in Scouting. Parents should be representative of boys in
all age groups within the Troop to provide continuity of the Committee as
members depart. The Troop Committee shall be organized (see BSA Troop Committee
Handbook) as follows:
(1)
A chairman whose general responsibilities are:
(a) Maintain contact with Committee
members;
(b) Chair monthly Committee meetings
and call additional meetings as necessary.
(c)
Recruit adults for
vacant positions on the committee.
(d)
Call for a committee
to select a new SM or Committee Chair.
(e)
Hold a Eagle Board of
review for the troop.
(2)
The following members, serving as subcommittee chairs
with each subcommittee encouraged to have additional members, if required or
desired, to assist in the performance of the assigned responsibilities. Some of these jobs are more fully described below
under troop leaders.
(a)
Secretary: Committee meeting minutes/notices.
(b)
Membership and Recruiting: Cub Scout Pack/Webelos
coordination, "School Night for Scouting" participation, general
recruiting efforts.
(c)
Treasurer: Financial records; Audit team; Budget plan.
(d)
Fund Raisers: Coordinate fund raising activities for the
troop.
(e)
Camping: Obtain permits and coordinate the outdoor
activities.
(f)
Transportation:
arrange transportation to and from all Scout activities.
(g)
Training: Encourage, promote, and conduct training for
adults and Scouts as necessary.
(h)
Equipment: Procurement and maintenance of troop equipment.
(i)
Advancement: Monitor
individual Scout advancement; conduct Boards of Review; supervise Courts of
Honor; obtain and maintain supply of advancement materials; oversee currency of
Troop library.
(j)
Chaplain: Provides
spiritual tone for troop meetings and activities. To assist Scout Chaplain.
(k)
Eagle Scout Advisor.
(3) Chartered Organization
Representative (CR). Appointed by the chartered organization, the CR is a
member of the chartered organization and serves as liaison between the Troop
and the chartered organization. The CR is a voting member of the Troop
Committee, and the Chartered Organization's voting representative to the
district and council.
(4) Scoutmaster. The Scoutmaster
is not a formal member of the Committee and has no vote, but assists the
chairman in planning the agenda and attends Committee meetings to keep the
Committee informed of the activities and programs of the Troop. The Scoutmaster
presents the plans and needs of the Troop to the Committee for approval and
assistance. The Scoutmaster shall be registered with the Boy Scouts of America
and shall complete leadership training.
(5) Scoutmaster
Emeritus: A voting member of the
committee.
(6)
Assistant Scoutmaster(s). Assistant Scoutmaster(s) are not formal
members of the Committee and have no vote in Committee proceedings unless there
are not enough adults who are committee members. Any number of Assistant
Scoutmasters can be a part of the Troop, as required/desired by the
Scoutmaster. Assistant Scoutmasters
must be 18 years of age, shall be registered with the Boy Scouts of America and
complete leadership training.
D.
ADULT LEADERS. The adult leader’s
positions in the troop are the following:
1. Scoutmaster. The Scoutmaster is not a
formal member of the Committee and has no vote, but assists the chairman in
planning the agenda and attends Committee meetings to keep the Committee
informed of the activities and programs of the Troop. The Scoutmaster presents
the plans and needs of the Troop to the Committee for approval and assistance.
The Scoutmaster shall be registered with the Boy Scouts of America and shall
complete leadership training.
a.
Follow the guidelines established by the Boy Scouts of America and the
troop committee to achieve the aims of Scouting for the membership of Troop
508. Use the proven methods presented
in the Scouting literature to direct the program of the troop. Conduct all activities under qualified
leadership, safe conditions, and the policies of the chartered organization and
the Boy Scouts of America.
b.
Train and guide boy leaders.
Meet with the Patrol Leaders' Council for training and coordination and
planning of troop activities. Conduct
workshops and training sessions to instruct the boy leadership in the proper
methods of running their troop.
c.
Attend all troop functions, troop committee meetings, and district
events or have a qualified substitute present. Keep the troop Committee
Chairman, the Scouting Coordinator and the Troop Committee advised of all
troop activities and policies.
d.
Conduct Scoutmaster's conferences for all rank advancement.
e.
Effectively delegate responsibilities and duties to other adults and
groups so they have a real part in troop operations. See that effective lines of communications are open between the
Committee, the Scoutmaster's Staff, the Patrol Leaders' Council, the Scouts and
the parents.
f.
Insure that a continuous recruiting effort goes on to maintain or increase
the membership of the troop.
g.
Make sure that each Scout has the opportunity to attend at least ten
days and nights of camping each year.
h.
Make sure that all
Scouts are registered. Make sure that
all new Scouts are entered in the troop records and assigned to a patrol. Enforce the prompt payment of dues and fees.
i.
The Scoutmaster (or
an assigned Assistant Scoutmaster) to edit, publish and distribute a newsletter.
2. Scoutmaster Emeritus:
a.
Serve as Chief of the Fire at courts of honor.
b.
Conduct induction ceremonies of new Scouts.
c.
Advise the Scoutmaster of any problems or needs that may arise.
d.
Assist any of the adult leaders in their jobs.
e.
Help encourage the boy scouts in their advancement and behavior.
3. Assistant Scoutmaster(s). Any number of
Assistant Scoutmasters can be a part of the Troop, as required/desired by the
Scoutmaster. Assistant Scoutmasters
must be 18 years of age, shall be registered with the Boy Scouts of America and
complete leadership training.
Responsibilities:
a. Assistant Scoutmaster of Transition Scouts:
1.
Be responsible to the Scoutmaster for the transitional Scouts.
2.
Work with the Troop Guide and counsel him on the performance of his
duties.
3.
Work with Webelos Den Leaders related to the troop.
4.
Attend functions planned by Scouts in transitional program, with at
least one other adult.
5.
Counsel new Scouts to encourage them to attain First Class within one
year after joining the troop.
6.
Attend training courses and roundtable.
7.
Meet with parents of new Scouts and explain their role in supporting
their son.
8.
Report to Scoutmaster on transitional Scouts' needs.
b. Assistant Scoutmaster of Advancement:
1.
Serve on boards of review and determine that advancement is properly
recorded on the required forms for the Advancement Committee Chairman should
he not be present.
2.
Assist the Patrol Leaders' Council and Scoutmaster in the qualification
of Scouts for rank advancement and merit badge counseling. Maintain a current merit badge counselor
list. See that a supply of forms or
cards is maintained for advancement needs.
3.
Assist the troop Scribe in the maintenance of the troop advancement
board.
4.
Assist the troop Librarian in the maintenance of merit badge books and
other material needed by the Scouts for advancement.
5.
Advise the Scoutmaster and the Patrol Leaders' Council of necessary
programs or training sessions needed for troop advancement.
6.
Assist the Scoutmaster in review of uniforms, badges and insignia to
determine if the troop is in conformance with Boy Scouts of America policy and
the troop uniform code.
7.
Advise the Scoutmaster of any problems or needs with the above.
c. Assistant Scoutmaster of Camping and
Outdoors:
1.
Assist the Scoutmaster and the Patrol Leaders' Council in the planning
of the troops outdoor program.
2.
Assist the Camping and High Adventure Committee Chairman in the
preparation and planning of troop outings as planned by the Patrol Leaders'
Council.
3.
Assist the troop Quartermaster in the supervision of the troop
equipment. Advise the Scoutmaster of
any damaged equipment or of any equipment purchases needed.
4.
Assist the development and presentation of any programs needed to train
the Scouts in outdoor methods.
5.
Advise the Scoutmaster of any problems or needs with the above.
d. Assistant Scoutmaster of Older Scouts:
1.
The older scouts are those 14 yrs or older.
2.
Assist the Scoutmaster and Patrol Leaders' Council with planning
sessions and training.
3.
Advise and guide the troop officers in the implementation of the troop
program for older boys.
4.
Serve as adult counselor, with at least one other adult, for outings and
activities of older Scouts.
5.
Advise the Scoutmaster of problems or conflicts in the above areas.
6.
Help in leadership training and implementation of leadership skills.
e. Asst. Scoutmaster
of Membership and Recruiting Program
1. The Troop 508 Membership and Recruiting program will be conducted using guidelines found in the following:
A. Rules and Regulations of the Boy Scouts of America.
B. The Scoutmaster Handbook (Chapter on Membership).
C. Troop Committee Guidebook For Successful Troop
Operation.
D. Any other National, Circle Ten Council, or Western Star
District additional guidance. Areas concerning membership and recruiting will
not be limited to these resources. Other sources of information can be used at
the discretion of the Troop Committee.
2 . The position of Troop Membership and Recruiting Chairman is not listed as an official Troop Committee position by the Boy Scouts of America. However, the membership and recruiting of new Scouts is extremely important for the continued growth of a Troop. Therefore, Troop 508 has listed this as an official Troop 508 Committee position. An assistant Scoutmaster should be assigned to this position. If there is no assistant Scoutmaster assigned, a Troop Committee member should be assigned.
3. The Troop 508 Membership and Recruiting Chairman is responsible for the following:
A. Membership. Responsible for Troop membership growth. This
is done by ensuring that a continuous recruiting effort goes on to maintain or
increase the membership of the Troop.
1. Assists new Scouts/new adult leaders in "processing
into the Troop".
2. Assists new Scouts/new adult leaders in the filling out
and completion of membership applications.
3. Performs and records the results of adult application
reference checks.
4. Assists in the registration of Merit Badge Counselors.
5. Keeps a supply of Troop 508 Handbooks for issue to new
Scouts/new adult leaders.
6. Reviews new Scout/new adult leader uniforms. This is to
assist them in conforming to the Troop uniform code and the proper wearing of
badges and insignia.
B. Recruiting. Serves as the leader of the Troop's
recruiting team. This team will be comprised of a group of Troop adults willing
to help with the Troop's recruiting program.
1. Directs the Troop recruiting teams in visits to Cub Scout
Packs.
2. Coordinates the Cub Scout/Webelos visitations with the
Troop.
3. Serves as the Troop representative at Webelos Arrow of
Light Ceremonies. If unable to attend, is responsible for having a qualified
substitute present.
4. Coordinates the Troop effort in "School Night for
Scouting" and Roundtable attendance.
C. To advise the Scoutmaster of any problems concerning new
Scouts/new adult leaders in the purchase of uniforms and equipment.
D.
To advise the Scoutmaster of any problems or needs in any of the above
mentioned areas.
f. Assistant Scoutmaster-At-Large:
1.
Aid the Assistant Scoutmaster of Advancement where needed or in his or
her absence.
2.
Aid the Assistant Scoutmaster of Camping and Outdoors where needed or in
his or her absence.
3.
Assist the Scoutmaster and other Assistant Scoutmasters where needed.
4.
Advise the Scoutmaster of any problems or needs that he observes.
g.
Eagle Scout Advisor/Coach. This
is an assistant SM who will help the Life scouts by:
1.
Help suggest possible
eagle projects and approve them.
2.
Help plan the eagle
project and fill out the proper paperwork.
3.
Get him ready to
present the project to the committee.
4.
Help the life scout
get ready for the eagle board of review.
Get the paper work filled out and compile his eagle book.
C.
TROOP
1.
Troop Organization: The Troop will be organized into as many Patrols as required. Each Patrol will consist of a Patrol Leader
and no less than four Scouts nor more than ten Scouts, consistent with the
abilities of the Scouts in a Patrol to manage themselves and their activities. Additionally, the Troop Senior Patrol Leader
may detach members of the various patrol to serve as "Troop Staff"
and this Troop Staff may function as a separate patrol.
2.
Troop Meetings. Troop 508 will hold meetings weekly. Meetings currently are
held every Tuesday, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Changes to the meeting schedule
will be announced as early as possible to allow for proper planning.
a.
Scouts
must be in full uniform unless excused (shirt, pants or shorts, Boy Scout
Handbook, Troop 508 Handbook tablet and pencil. A neckerchief & bolo are
recommended but not required for regular meetings.
b.
Be
at troop meetings on time unless excused.
Leave on time. No lingering.
c.
Must
be in patrol areas (no running around or fighting) .
d.
Adhere
to troop meeting agenda which must have prior Senior Patrol Leader approval.
e.
Troop
meeting outlines are made weeks in advance at the PLC, and finalized one week
in advance.
f.
Senior
Patrol Leader is the one conducting the meeting. No one interrupts.
g.
No
soft drinks inside meeting place.
h.
No
hats worn inside meeting place.
i.
No
shoes can be worn in meeting room.
3.
Adult Leadership. Two registered adult leaders, or one adult and a Scout
parent, one of whom must be at least 21 years of age, are required for all
Troop 508 meetings, trips or outings.
Troop
Leadership Positions:
The
Senior Patrol Leader and the other following leaders listed are elected by
members of the Troop during elections
which will be held in September and March of each year.
Senior
Patrol Leader:
1. Participate
in junior leader training.
2. Plan
troop meetings with Patrol Leaders' Council, plan campouts with Patrol Leaders'
Council and Scoutmaster, and plan Patrol Leaders' Council meetings.
3. Lead
troop meetings, courts of honor, campouts, Patrol Leaders' Council meetings and
other troop outings.
4. If
desired by the troop, appoint Assistant Senior Patrol Leader and other troop
officers with the advise and consent of the Scoutmaster.
5. Keep
Patrol Leaders and Scoutmaster informed.
6. Share
leadership opportunities with others.
7. Conduct
the program planning conference.
8. Understand
the needs of the troop.
9. Prepare
Patrol leaders to take part in all troop activities.
10. Develop scout spirit and patrol
competition.
11. Direct other troop leaders to make
sure the troop runs well.
12. Know what the patrol leaders can
do.
13. Set the Example:
- Earn Advancements.
- Live by the Scout Oath and Law.
- Wear the uniform correctly.
Assistant
Senior Patrol Leader:
1. Participate
in junior leader training.
2. Train
and guide patrol leaders.
3. Help
with meetings and activities.
4. Act
as the Senior Patrol Leader in his absence.
Patrol
Leader:
1. Participate
in junior leader training.
2. Plan
patrol meetings and activities.
3. Lead
patrol meetings and activities.
4. Keep
patrol members informed.
5. Share
leadership by giving each patrol member a job and replace dropouts.
6. Instruct
patrol members in scoutcraft skills.
7. Represent
the patrol at the program planning conference and the patrol leaders council
meetings.
S. Understand
the needs of the patrol.
9. Prepare
patrol to take part in all troop activities.
10. Develop patrol spirit and control.
11. Work with other troop leaders to
make the troop run well.
12. Know what patrol members and other
leaders can do.
13. Set the example:
- Earn advancement.
- Live by the Scout Oath and Law.
- Wear the uniform correctly.
14.
The youth members of each Patrol will elect their Patrol Leader
The
Troop Staff. These may be appointed by
the Senior Patrol Leader with the concurrence of the Patrol Leader's Council
and the approval of the Scoutmaster, or may be elected by the whole troop. Positions consist of the following:
Quartermaster, Chaplain's Aide, Troop Guide(s), Scribe, Librarian, Bugler,
Historian, Junior Assistant Scoutmaster, Troop Webmaster.
Scribe: Keep log of Patrol Leaders' Council meetings, attendance
and dues payments, troop advancement, and honor patrol points.
Quartermaster: Keep and check out troop equipment. See that it is returned in good condition or
repaired. Help in acquisition of new
equipment.
Historian: Keep scrapbooks and display keepsakes. Take pictures of events and collect
newspaper articles
Librarian: Keep records on the troop literature. Check out and follow up on the return of
materials. Help secure new material for
the troop library.
Chaplain's
Aide: Help with religious
activities of the troop and help in troop planning to consider religious
activities and holidays of which the troop should be aware.
Troop
Guide:
1. Work with transitional Scouts to assist
them in meeting advancement requirements through First Class.
2. Instruct transitional patrol members
in scoutcraft skills.
3. Represent the transitional patrol at
the program planning conference and the Patrol Leaders' Council meetings.
4. Participate in junior leader
training.
5. Prevent harassment of transitional
Scouts by older Scouts.
6. Counsel transitional Scouts as
needed on Scouting challenges.,
7. Guide new Scouts through early troop
activities to help them become comfortable in the troop and the outdoors.
8. Plan transitional patrol meetings
and activities.
9. Lead transitional patrol meetings
and activities.
10. Keep transitional patrol members
informed.
11. Share leadership by giving each
patrol member a job and replace dropouts.
12. Understand the needs of the
transitional patrol.
13. Prepare transitional patrol to take
part in all troop activities.
14. Develop transitional patrol spirit
and control.
15. Work with other troop leaders to
make the troop runs well.
16. Know what transitional patrol
members and other leaders can do.
17. Set the example:
- Earn
advancement.
- Live
by the Scout Oath and Law.
- Wear
the uniform correctly.
Junior
Assistant scoutmaster:
1.
Supervise
and help the support staff of the troop.
2.
Work
with the den chiefs.
3.
Do troop jobs as assigned by the SM.
Troop
Webmaster. This scout will maintain and update the
troop web site under the supervision of one of the scoutmasters.
e.
The following guidelines are established to ensure that Scouts elected to
leadership positions in the Troop have the experience, maturity, and knowledge
to lead. All scouts meeting the
following guidelines are eligible to be elected or re-elected.
(1)
General requirements to be met for all leadership positions. To be eligible for
a leadership position in Troop 508, a Scout must meet the following minimum
requirements:
(a) Be making an effort to advance in
rank.
(b) Display leadership potential.
(c) Attend a minimum of 80% of the
Troop's activities.
(d) Demonstrate an effort to live up to
the Scout Oath and Scout Law in his daily life.
The Scoutmaster shall determine whether
a scout meets the above requirements.
(2)
Senior Patrol Leader:
(a) 13 years old.
(b) First Class rank.
(c) Have held a previous leadership
position in Troop 508.
(d) Have had scout leader training.
(3)
Patrol Leader:
(a) 12 years old.
(b) Scout rank.
(c) Have had scout leader training.
(4)
Assistant Senior Patrol Leader:
(a) 13 years old.
(b) First Class rank.
(c) Have held a previous leadership
position in Troop 508.
(d) Have had scout leader training.
(5)
Assistant Patrol Leader:
(a) Selected by patrol leader and have the approval of the
Scoutmaster.
(b) Scout rank.
(6)
Troop Staff.
(a) First Class in rank. A scout of lower rank may hold this position
if there are no other scouts of higher rank to fill that position.
3.
Troop Program Planning: The Troop that succeeds plans exactly where it is going
and how it's going to get there. The planning process should follow the
procedures established in the "Scoutmaster Handbook".
a. Annual (Long-Term) Plan. Long term planning meetings with the Patrol
Leaders' Council (PLC) will be held twice a year in the spring and the fall to
plan the next 6 months meetings and campouts in detail; and to plan the
Campouts between 6 and 12 months away.
This plan shall be presented to the Troop Committee by the Senior Patrol
Leader for approval and planning support.
b. Monthly PLC Meeting. Each month the PLC will meet to plan in
detail the program for the coming month.
The Patrol Leaders' Council may make variations from the plan for
special activities if approved by the Scoutmaster.
D.
TROOP PARENTS
The
role of parents within Troop 508's successful operation cannot be understated.
Parents of Troop 508 are expected to be supportive of the Troop's efforts to
provide the atmosphere Scouts need to learn and excel. Parents are expected to:
1. Read their Scout's handbook and
understand the purpose and methods of Scouting. Parents should attend an
informal Boy Scout Fast Start by the Troop Committee or the district.
2. Actively follow their Scout's
progress (or lack thereof) and offer encouragement and a push when needed.
3. Show support to both the individual
Scout and the Troop by attending all Troop Courts of Honor. Assist, as requested, in all Troop
fundraisers and other such activities.
All such assistance lowers the cost of the program we offer to the
Scouts and, therefore, lowers each family's cash outlay for their Scout(s).
5. Be aware of the Troop program and
annual calendar.
6. See that the scout attends each
meeting in uniform with scout book.
SECTION
II - ADMINISTRATIVE
A.
RECHARTERING
1. The process of rechartering the
Troop must be completed by the end of January of each calendar year. Each registered adult shall pay their own
registration fees. Boys will pay their
Registration fee when joining the troop and the troop will pay for future
rechartering including the Boys' Life.
2. Rechartering will be accomplished in
accordance with the requirements established by the Council and District.
B.
UNIFORM
1. Scouting is a uniformed
program. Each scout is required to have
and wear, within a reasonable amount of time after joining the Troop, the
following uniform items:
a. Tan scout shirt with appropriate
insignia and patches and green Scout pants.
b. Troop neckerchief with slide.
c. Scout belt and buckle.
2. Uniform and insignia shall be worn
in accordance with the "Insignia Guide".
3. Each scout is required to wear his
uniform to all scheduled activities or outings. Shirt and pants/shorts are required for Tuesday Meetings; full
uniform for court of honor and board of reviews; and shirt only for campout
trips. Changes of clothing may be
prescribed to accommodate activities which might damage the uniform.
4. The Scoutmaster and Assistant
Scoutmasters are required to have and wear, within a reasonable amount of time
after joining the Troop, the uniform as outlined above.
5. The boy will purchase and wear the
standard boyscout neckerchief, and will be given a troop neckerchief when reaching
Second Class. If the scout loses the
neckerchief he is required to pay for the next one at cost.
C.
FINANCE/RECORDS
1.
TROOP YEAR. The Program
year for Troop 508 is from Jan 1 through Dec 31. All records will be closed out on Dec 31st.
2.
TAX EXEMPT NUMBER. The Troop has
a current tax exempt number from the State.
This number should be used for Troop purchases requiring the payment of
sales tax.
3.
INSURANCE. Registered Scouts and adults are covered by
Supplemental Accident insurance for illness or injury during scheduled and
approved Troop activities. The
insurance is provided through the Boyscouts of America.
The insurance provides the benefits for
injuries occurring to an insured person while the coverage is in force as
described below:
A. Participating
in an activity approved and supervised by the Boy Scouts of America, or
B. Traveling
directly to or from such activities.
This does not cover eye glasses. If you have any further questions, problems
or need to make a claim, contact the Committee Chairperson.
4.
FUND RAISERS. The Troop
Committee is responsible for recommending and conducting fund raisers. All fund
raisers will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Boy Scouts
of America with a permit submitted to Circle Ten.
5.
DUES. Dues are paid
weekly and is $1.00 at the present time.
This should be paid weekly and not in lump sums. This money helps pay for advancement cost:
pins, badges, plaques, etc. If the
scout is three months behind in dues, at the discretion of the SM or committee,
the scout may not go on troop activities, campouts, or be awarded advancement
ranks or badges.
6.
AUDITS. Each year, during
the month of January an audit of the finance records shall be made by two
adults, other than the Treasurer, appointed by the committee. This audit has a
two fold purpose; one to protect the financial interests of the Troop and, two,
to protect the treasurer from potential accusations of wrong doing. A report
shall be prepared showing the results of the audit and recommending changes or
modifications that should be made to the accounting system. The report shall be
presented to the Committee at the next scheduled meeting following the audit.
This report shall be retained in the Troop records.
7.
ANNUAL BUDGET. A subcommittee consisting of at least three
members, including the Scoutmaster, the Treasurer, and the Fund Raiser, shall
prepare an annual budget, before January, for the upcoming program year. The
budget must be approved by the Committee.
8.
SUMMER CAMP OR SUMMER ACTIVITY FEES.
This
troop plans a one week summer camp each year.
The cost is approximately $110.
A $10.00 payment is due in mid-January.
Additional $25.00 payments are due the first part of March & April
with the balance due the first part of May.
The camp and date change from year to year. Camps that the troop have gone to in the past are Camp Pioneer,
Camp Tom Hale, Camp Cherokee and Camp Constantine. If the scout cannot go to summer camp because of financial
difficulties, please contact the scoutmaster, or Outdoor camping Asst
Scoutmaster for information on scholarships for money. Troop 508 does not want to see a scout miss
camping because of a lack of money.
9.
TROOP CHECKING ACCOUNT.
a. The Troop will maintain a checking
account in a Committee approved bank located in Irving.
b. The Treasurer and the Troop
Committee Chairman will be authorized to draw upon the Troop checking
account. Other members of the troop
committee may be given power of signature of checks as appointed by the Committee
Chairman and treasurer. Checks will be
signed by two authorized persons.
c. The Treasurer will report the status
of the account at each Committee meeting.
D.
OTHER FUNCTIONS OF THE TROOP:
1.
TROOP MEMBERSHIP AND ADVANCEMENT RECORDS.
Troop Membership and Advancement Records will be maintained by the Advancement
Chairman using an appropriate computer program. Once a year, these records will
be audited to ensure accuracy. At the end of each Troop year, a copy of the
files for this program will be archived and provided to the Secretary for
storage with all Troop paper records. These records will be maintained in
perpetuity.
2.
OUTDOOR PROGRAM AND TROOP ACTIVITIES.
Outdoor program is the name of our
game. Without it the game doesn't work.
Scouting without outing is in the same league as swimming without water
- and boys catch on fast. Scouting is
effective whenever we take advantage of this truth: The place where Scouting
works best is also the place the boys enjoy most: The Outdoors.
1. Must
be in uniform only to and from campouts (unless excused). Boy Scout Handbook should be brought on
campouts.
2. Quartermaster
will check out equipment from scout hut.
He is responsible for the equipment being returned in good condition and
stored properly.
3. Patrols
must camp an adequate distance apart and not interfere with other patrols.
4. Any
Scout ten dollars or more behind in dues may not go on the campout.
5. No
entry into other patrol areas without permission by that patrol except for
Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader and adults except in
emergencies.
6. No
mixing of patrols or patrol equipment.
7. Patrol
members will eat with their patrol only.
8. Menus
must be voted on prior to the campout by those members going and the majority
rules. The Senior Patrol Leader or the
SM can approve or disapprove menus prior to the campout.
9. No
one leaves camp without permission from the Scoutmaster or his designated
assistant.
10. The buddy system must be used and
enforced.
11. Duty roster and the times listed
must be approved by the Senior Patrol Leader prior to campout.
12. Time schedules for duties will be
enforced and patrol members must stay in camp until duties are complete.
13. No electronic games allowed in
camp, but are allowed in vehicles on extra long trips. Radios with earphones are allowed in tents
and vehicles only and are not to be worn walking around camp. Adults may have radios for weather reports
but must be kept on low volume.
14. No unacceptable reading material
allowed.
15.
Totin'-Chip must be on person any time using a knife, ax, saw, etc.
16. Sheath knives can not be
taken. Please use folding lockback
pocket knives.
17.
Personal property of others must be respected by all.
18. Stealing and profanity are grounds
for dismissal from the troop. Those
playing with matches or fire in an improper manner will be disciplined harshly
and repeat offenses are also grounds for dismissal.
19.
The patrol leader appoints a patrol member to buy the food for the
campout. This should be approximately
$10 for the weekend and should be brought and paid before or at the
campout. The cost is divided between
the boys going. The meals may also be
divided among the patrol members with each member getting the food for one
meal. Any boy missing a campout, who
does not let the patrol know before the food is purchased, must pay for his
portion even though he did not go and eat it.
Money should be brought to the next meeting.
20.
Equipment: For a complete list of camping equipment, please refer to the
Boy Scout Handbook. The troop has some items like chuck box, eating and cooking
utensils, ground cloths, tents, dining flys.
If the scout needs certain equipment and could not go camping if he did
not have it, please contact the SM who will try to get the items borrowed or purchased. Items for the chuck box should be purchased
and cost shared by all in the patrol.
Each patrol should appoint a quartermaster for the patrol who will be
responsible for the chuck box and contents.
c.
SUMMER CAMP OR SUMMER ACTIVITY. The Troop will attend a Boy Scouts of America
sponsored Summer Camp or Troop sponsored Summer Activity every year.
Advancement during Summer Camp or a Summer Activity will be a planned part of
the event. The Troop will comply with the requirements of the Council and Camp
for registration and preparation.
d.
TROOP/DISTRICT/COUNCIL EVENTS. The Patrol Leader's Council will select which
Council or District events the Troop will attend each year. The PLC is
encouraged to approve attendance at all District/Council events. Decisions will be approved by the SM or
Committee Chairman.
e.
PARENT PARTICIPATION. The goal of the
Scouting Outdoor program is to teach the Scout leadership, teamwork, and
outdoor proficiency. Although the Troop wants to encourage parent
participation, the attendance at outings by too many parents or adults could
inhibit this learning experience. The "Scoutmaster Handbook" recommends that 1 adult attend outings and
activities for each 8 scouts in attendance but there shall be not less than 2
adults. Two deep leadership will be
observed at all times with absolutely no exceptions.
f.
TRANSPORTATION. The Troop Committee is responsible for arranging transportation
to and from outings, summer camp and activities planned by the Troop's
PLC. The Committee will coordinate with
the Scoutmaster to determine the number of vehicles necessary to transport the
Troop to the outing or activity. The
Transportation Chairman or the Troop Committee will contact parents to request
assistance in driving and will establish the authorized drivers list.
g.
OUTINGS AND ACTIVITIES ARRANGEMENTS
1) Tour Permits. The Outdoor Chairman
is responsible for preparation of tour permits in a timely manner. Tour permits are required by the Boy Scouts
of America any time the Troop leaves for a trip.
2) Reservations. The Outdoor Chairman
is responsible for making reservations for use of campsites and attendance at
District or Council events or activities.
h.
PARENTAL/GUARDIAN CONSENT. Written permission from the parent/guardian of each
scout shall be obtained before a Scout may attend an outing or activity. This
is to obtain a release for the leaders and to provide for emergency medical
treatment should the parent/guardian not be available. The permission is on the
health form of the registration form when the boy joins the troop. The Scout family must execute the longer
Class II BSA medical form within six months of joining the Troop.
i.
ORDER OF THE ARROW.
1) The Order of the Arrow (OA) is a
national brotherhood of Scout honor campers originated to strengthen Troops and
encourage outdoor experiences. It is
based on brotherhood and cheerful service to fellow men. Troop members are nominated and elected to
membership by fellow Scouts in their own Troops. They must meet election qualifications that are established by
the Order of the Arrow. Elections are held once each year, usually in January
or February, under the direction of the Council's OA lodge. Nomination and election procedures are
provided by the lodge. One eligible
adult may be nominated by the Troop Committee but only if Scouts are elected.
2) Upon election the scouts and adults
will not be informed of their election. Parents of elected scouts will be
notified of their election so they may attend the OA ceremony during Summer
Camp or a Camporee. Elected scouts and adults will be "called out"
during ceremonies. The election and
"call out" does not make those elected to the Order of the Arrow a
member of the Order of the Arrow.
Individuals become members of the OA upon successful completion of the
Ordeal of the Order conducted at a different time and location.
3.
TROOP EQUIPMENT AND MAINTENANCE.
a. The Troop Committee is responsible
for the purchase and maintenance of equipment to meet the needs of the Troop's
outdoor program. Troop 508 encourages
each boy to eventually purchase and use his own pack, tent, and sleeping bag.
b. Acquisition. Purchases of equipment
shall only be made with the approval of the Troop Committee. Expendable supplies such as rope, twine,
first aid supplies, LP gas, etc. may be purchased by the Scoutmaster or his
designated representative against the Troop budget without approval of the
committee. Receipts shall be turned
into the treasurer for reimbursement.
No single purchase shall exceed $75.00 without the approval of the
committee.
c. Inventory. A list of all equipment
owned by the Troop shall be maintained by the Troop Quartermaster and a copy of
the inventory will be provided to the Troop Committee.
d. Maintenance. The Troop
Quartermaster, with a representative of each patrol, is responsible to
inventory and clean equipment after each outing. Shortages or items needing
maintenance should be reported to the Scoutmaster and/or the Troop Committee. The Equipment/Facilities Chair of the Troop
Committee, working with the Troop Quartermaster shall inventory all equipment
annually. Each patrol is responsible for repair or replacement of issued
equipment lost or damaged for any reason other than normal wear and tear.
4.
ADVANCEMENT.
a. There are many definitions of
advancement, but the Scouting definition might well be, simply, "the art
of meeting a challenge." For that is exactly what the Boy Scout
advancement program asks boys to do. It
invites them to master a challenging series of skills that prepare them to
enjoy the outdoor action Scouting promises.
As they master these skills they move up through six Boy Scouting ranks,
each more demanding than the last, and each qualifying them for more exciting
outdoor adventure - and more fun.
b. There are four steps of advancement:
The Boy Scout Learns.
The Boy Scout is Tested.
The Boy Scout is Reviewed.
The Boy Scout is Recognized.
Details for advancement are contained in the Boy Scout
Handbook, which every Scout is required to have as soon as possible after
joining the Troop.
c. Advancement through First Class.
From the time the Scout enters the Troop through the time he earns advancement
to First Class, he is learning basic scouting skills to enable him to camp,
hike, swim, cook, tie knots, administer first aid, and perform other tasks in
the outdoors and to work as a member of a team. The goal of the Scouting
program, and this Troop, is for the Scout to achieve the rank of First Class
within his first year in the Troop.
These achievements shall be signed off by Asst SM or older scouts
designated by a Asst SM. A parent
should not sign off more than three of their son's requirements for each rank.
d. Advancement from First Class to
Eagle. From the achievement of First
Class through Eagle the Scout will be demonstrating leadership, performing
service projects, earning merit badges and demonstrating the scout law in his
everyday behavior. Upon completion of
all the requirements for Star and Life the Scout will be eligible for Eagle.
e. To schedule a Scoutmaster's
Conference, the Scout should contact the Scoutmaster as soon as possible after
he has completed his rank requirements.
The Scoutmaster will set a date for the conference and inform the scout
of that date. The conference date will
typically be set for the next scheduled troop meeting, activity, or campout,
but should be held as soon as possible so as to allow the scout to continue
working of other advancement projects.
During
the Scoutmaster Conference, the Scoutmaster may determine whether or not to
sign off on the Scout Spirit requirement, in compliance with the definition of
Scout Spirit as defined in this handbook and in the BSA handbook. If the Scoutmaster, in good conscience, cannot
sign off the Scout Spirit requirement, he must inform the Scout as to his
reasons during the Scoutmaster Conference.
Also, if the requirement is not signed off, the Scoutmaster should
inform the Advancement Chairman as to these reasons, and these recorded in the
Scout's record for future reference. If
the Advancement Chairman and/or the parent does not feel that the withholding
of the Scout Spirit signing is justified, he should discuss it with the
Scoutmaster at that time. If further
arbitration is necessary because the two cannot come to agreement, the matter
will be brought before a quorum of the Troop Committee at the earliest possible
time, including a special called meeting if necessary. The final outcome will be determined by a
vote of the assembled leaders, with the parents, Scoutmaster, and Advancement
Chairman not present, and will stand as the final judgment.
f. All Boards of Review for the ranks
of Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life are conducted by members
of the troop committee. A scout who has
completed all of the necessary requirements and has had his Scoutmaster's
Conference, should contact the Advancement Chairman to schedule a Board of
Review for rank advancement. The
Advancement Chairman will determine the date for the Board of Review which
should be as soon as possible for all parties involved. The conference date will normally be set for
the next scheduled troop meeting, activity, or campout, but should be held as
soon as possible so as to allow the scout to continue working of other
advancement projects. The Advancement
Chairman reserves the right to re-schedule the board if circumstances arise to
which the Board can not be properly conducted within proper BSA
guidelines. The Scout must be notified
as soon as possible of the new scheduled date and the reasons for the change.
g. Scouts appearing before the board
should be in full uniform and have his Boy Scout Handbook.
h.
Merit Badges. The goal of the merit badge program is to expand a Scout's
areas of interest and to encourage the Scout to meet and work with adults in a
chosen subject. Merit badges are earned by a Scout working with a registered
merit badge counselor. The Scout is required to contact the counselor to
arrange for times and places to meet with the counselor. The Scout will obtain
an Application for Merit Badge (BSA form No. 4124) from the Scoutmaster. This
is a three part form. This form indicates to the counselor that the Scout is
eligible and has been approved by the Troop to work on the merit badge. When
the Scout completes the work on the merit badge the counselor will sign the
form and present the Scout with two of the three parts; the counselor will
retain the "Counselor copy." The Scout will turn in the other two
parts signed by the counselor to the Advancement Chairman. The scout will keep
the applicant's portion. The completed
merit badge will be recorded in the Troop Records and the last part of the
Merit Badge Application will be stored with the Troop's paper records. The
cloth uniform Merit Badge earned will be presented to the Scout during the
following Troop meeting. The Merit
Badge Card will be presented at the next Court of Honor.
i.
Merit Badge Counselors.
1) All parents of Troop 508 Scouts are
encouraged to become Merit Badge Counselors. Each merit badge counselor must be
registered; fees are not required. Counselors shall register using the Adult
Registration Application, (BSA form No. 28-501), and complete the Merit Badge
Counselor Information sheet and submit both to the District Advancement
Committee for review and approval. The District Advancement Committee maintains
a list of all registered merit badge counselors within the district.
2) A Counselor is not limited in the
number of badges he/she may be registered to counsel and there is no limit to
the number of badges a Counselor may work on with a specific Scout.
3) Counselors can only do three of
their son's merit badges and these should be done in a group of three or more
scouts.
j. Boards of review.
1) Purpose. The purpose of the review
is not an examination. Rather it is (a) to determine the Scout's attitude and
acceptance of Scouting's ideals; (b) to ensure that the requirements have been
met for advancement, (c) to discuss the Scout's experiences in the Troop and
the Troop's program, and (d) to encourage him to keep working towards
advancement. A Board of Review may also be held to counsel a boy about his lack
of progress toward advancement. Objective requirements that have been
"signed off" and Merit Badges that have been earned may not be re-tested
as part of the Board of Review. The board of Review may refer to a particular
skill or Merit Badge in the context of the overall program, learning
difficulties, likes, dislikes, etc. Each candidate is reviewed individually.
The candidate should be in complete uniform. The board should make every
attempt to be warm and friendly and be willing to listen to what the Scout has
to say.
2) The Advancement Chairman of the
Troop Committee is responsible to conduct or arrange for all boards of review.
3) Conduct of the Board of Review:
a) Tenderfoot, Second Class, First
Class, Star, and Life. The board of review is conducted by a minimum of three
Committee members. Parents of a Scout being considered for advancement by a
board of Review may not sit on their son's board. The Scoutmaster is not a
member of the board and may not attend or participate in Boards of Review;
however, the Board of Review may question the Scoutmaster regarding a
particular Scout as part of the Scout's Board of Review and will allow the
Scoutmaster to address the Board of Review about a particular Scout if the
Scoutmaster so requests.
b) The board should give the Scout the
opportunity to bring up any questions he may have, and a chance for the board
to talk to him about such matters as goals, Scout Spirit and personal growth.
If necessary, the board should frankly discuss his lack of progress and to try
to help him get back on track. After an
initial interview, the candidate is dismissed and the board discusses whether
the candidate is qualified. The candidate is asked to return before the board
and is told whether he is qualified or not. If not, the board informs him what
he must do to obtain approval.
c) The board will notify the
Scoutmaster of the results of the board. If advancement below Eagle is
approved, the Scout will be presented with the cloth patch of the new rank at
the next troop meeting as soon as possible following the Board of Review. A
certificate of rank will be presented at the next Court of Honor following the
Board of Review. The date that the Board of Review is held, if the advancement
is approved, is the date of the advancement.
d) Eagle: This board of review is
conducted by the Troop Committee prior to the district Eagle Board of
Review. The purpose of this board is to
review the scout's records and application to be sure all necessary paperwork
is complete and accurate. They will
also ask him questions and prepare him for his District Eagle Board of Review. The scout will then call the District Eagle
Advancement chairperson and arrange a District Eagle Board of Review. He should arrange for two or more adults
from the troop to be present during this Board and the Scoutmaster should be
present. The board is mainly conducted
be the District Person but the adults can add support and answer questions
asked of them. The SM may interrupt if
he feels the Board is being too rough and out of line with the Scout.
k. Advancement
Reporting and Recording.
1) Upon completion of the review
process for rank advancement, counseling, or when a completed Application for
Merit Badge form is received, the Advancement Report (BSA form no. 4403B) and,
for merit badges, the "Merit Badge Record" are completed, signed, and
submitted to the Scout Service Center for the purchase and recording with the
Council of the awards or rank and merit badges. Computer generated advancement
report may be used en lieu of the pre-printed Advancement Report.
2) When completing the Advancement
Report form, care must be exercised to ensure that the name of the Scout is
spelled consistently each time the form is submitted. If the names are spelled
different or nicknames are used in some cases but not all, they could be
interpreted by the District or Council as being different Scouts. This is
especially important when a Scout's records are being reviewed at District or
Council for Eagle.
3) A copy of the completed advancement
report forms will be retained by the Troop Committee in the Troop's paper
records.
l.
Purchase of Advancement Materials. Advancement material consists of
rank, merit badges, leadership position patches, and special awards such as
Lifesaving, Mile Swim, Quality Unit, Merit Badge Pamphlets, etc. These items
will be paid for by the Troop and purchased from the Council Service Center. Rank and merit badge purchases have to be
accompanied by the completed Advancement Report Form.
m.
Advancement Recognition. Each Scout should be presented with their badge
of rank or merit badge at a Troop meeting as soon as possible after the board
of review.
1) Eagle Recognition. A formal Eagle
Court of Honor shall be held to honor Scouts earning Eagle. The Troop will
inscribe the name of each Eagle Scout on the Eagle Scout wall plaque,
purchasing a new plaque whenever it is needed. The troop will purchase an Eagle
Plaque to be presented to the scout at the Eagle Court of Honor. Since the Eagle Court of Honor is highly
personalized, Troop 508 will provide as much support as possible for this
ceremony but all costs beyond those normally associated with the advancement
(i.e., rank patch or presentation kit) shall be paid by the family of the
Scout. The Scout and his family may
tailor the usual proceedings of the Eagle Court of Honor as long as approved by
the Committee Chairman.
2) Courts of Honor.
a) Troop 508 will conduct a Court of
Honor three or four times a year to recognize all Scouts who have earned such
recognition. It is the responsibility of the Troop's Patrol Leader's Council to
plan and conduct Troop Courts of Honor. The Troop Committee is responsible for supporting
the Courts of Honor as requested.
b) The Court of Honor recognizes all
Scout appointments, elections, awards, and advancements since the last Court of
Honor. Usually the SPL will be the
master of ceremony and the advancement handed to the boy by the Scoutmaster
&/or the Advancement Chairman.
Adult recognition may be presented during the Troop Court of Honor.
c) The Court of Honor is a public
ceremony and parents and all other interested individuals are be encouraged to
attend.
5.
SCOUT SPIRIT.
A) Live by the Scout Oath and Law.
B) Participate in leadership roles in
the troop as much as possible for the rank and troop elections. Scouts who are not in a troop office should
demonstrate a willingness to help those who are in leadership positions.
C) Attend as many of the weekly
meetings as possible. Preferably 50%.
D) Participate in as many other troop
activities as possible. These include
but not limited to: Campouts, Scout
show, Fund-raisers, Eagle Scout projects, and Scout camps. This would preferably be 50% or more. Less if there are extenuating circumstances.
E) If other BSA sponsored activities
(i.e. Oakleaf and Golden Acorn Training, Merit Badge Camps) conflict with troop
activities, participation in these should be applicable toward scout spirit.
F) When determining Scout Spirit,
allowances should be made by troop leadership for conflicts with school
activities. This is providing that the
Scout's participation in the school activity is obligatory by the school as a
class requirement and that missing that activity would affect the scout's grade
for the school course. (Band concert,
field trips, etc.)
6.
SAFETY. At all times, Troop
508 will adhere to the published BSA Guide for Safe Scouting and any National
or Council supplemental guidance. BSA
Safety Afloat guidelines will be followed during activities dealing with water.
STOVE
POLICY:
As
per BSA policy, stoves can only be lit by an adult, Patrol Leader, or First
Class Scout. Scouts first need to
demonstrate to an adult proper and safe handling of the stove. Fire fighting equipment must be on hand when
using stoves. This includes fire
bucket, burlap bags and/or shovels.
Operation of stoves must be supervised by an adult, with one adult
supervising no more than two stoves at one time. Stoves must be used at least 10 feet away from other stoves or
ground fires.
HIKING
and CANOE POLICY:
Troop
508 will follow BSA safety guidelines.
7.
DISCIPLINARY ACTION POLICY:
If
the actions of a scout are disruptive to meetings and activities, or endanger
the well being of another individual while engaged in a troop function, the
scout will be made aware that the behavior exhibited is not consistent with the
expectations of a Scout and must stop immediately. Swearing, inappropriate comments, loud talking during meetings,
skills, etc. and other disruptive actions in this same vein will not be
tolerated. Threats against another
person which are not made in jest and/or actions which may cause harm to another
individual must be taken seriously and are not allowed under any
circumstance. Scouting is meant to
teach the values of life and respect for others. If behavior that is inconsistent with the expectations of a member
of the Boy Scouts is exhibited repeatedly, the following disciplinary steps are
suggested. These may be shortened or
lengthened depending on the severity or other extenuating circumstances.
a.
First
infraction: The first warning is given
by the Patrol Leader of which the scout is a member. The Patrol Leader is to inform the SPL that a reprimand was
necessary.
b.
Second: The second warning is given by the SPL or
ASPL. He may take the option of
removing the scout to the back of the room.
He then should inform the SM that a second reprimand was needed.
c.
Third: The third warning is given by the SM with
the SPL and/or ASST SM also present.
The scout's parents will be notified of the problem by the SM.
d.
Fourth: By this time the scout has had numerous
chances to correct his problems. The
Scout's parents, the SM and the SPL
will meet to discuss the problems and how they are detrimental to the workings
of the troop.
e. Fifth: The parent will be called by the SM to pick
up the scout immediately. The SM and
another troop adult will inform the scout and parent that further inappropriate
behavior will be grounds for dismissal from the troop. This should be followed up by a letter from
the SM within 7 days to put in writing
to the parent and scout of possibility of dismissal from the troop.
f. Sixth infraction: Upon the sixth infraction, the Troop Committee will review the Scout’s record and counsel with the Advancement Chairman and Scoutmaster. The Committee will then vote to retain or dismiss the Scout. The Scout will be dismissed by a 2/3-majority vote of the Committee. There must be six or more members present (or at least 50 percent of the Committee if it has less than twelve members). The Scout and parent will be notified of the dismissal by the Committee Chairman or the Scoutmaster, with another Committee member present.
The Scout and parent may appeal the decision one time to the Committee
at a regularly scheduled Committee Meeting or at a called meeting, at the
discretion of the Committee Chairman.
Notice shall be given to the members of the Troop Committee at least six
(6) days before any called meeting for appeal purposes.
7. Changes to this Handbook:
1.
Suggested changes are
brought before the Committee for discussion.
This can be brought by any boy or adult member of the troop.
2.
If a majority of the
Committee members present at that meeting agree that this change should be
made, then one or more persons should write a draft of the change.
3.
After the draft is
reviewed and alterations made by the Committee, a final copy of the changes is
approved by a majority present at that Committee Meeting. This can be done at the same meeting at
which the changes were presented or brought back to the following Committee
Meeting.
4.
Then a notice,
containing the final copy of the changes and the Committee Meeting date and
time upon which these changes will be voted, will be handed out at the next
three troop meetings to those in attendance at the troop meeting.
5.
The changes are voted
upon at the next Committee Meeting.
There must be six or more members present (or at least 50 percent of the
Committee if it has less than twelve members).
6.
The election will be by
anonymous votes written on sheets of paper and tallied by the Committee
Chairman. The Scoutmaster and Committee
Chairman shall have a vote for changes in this Handbook.
7.
The changes are approved
upon 2/3 affirmative votes.
8.
Changes will be in
effect immediately unless otherwise specified in the change.
9.
Dates of each Handbook
revision will be printed on each page of the Handbook.
LIST OF PRINTED MATERIALS AVAILABLE FOR ASSISTANCE
1.
Troop
Committee Guidebook: Committee
operations and policies including basic troop guidelines.
2.
The Official
Scoutmaster's Handbook: Contains
guidelines for the Scoutmaster plus overall troop organization and operation.
3.
The Official
Patrol Leader's Handbook:
How to be a good patrol leader, Patrol Leaders' Council meetings, hiking,
camping, and advancement.
4.
The Official
Boy Scout Handbook: Guide for
Scouting, advancement, outdoor activities (cooking, hiking, camping and
nature).
5.
Boy Scout
Fieldbook: Hiking, compass,
camping, rope work fires, cooking, outdoors, high adventure, survival, plant;
and animals.
6.
Boy Scout
Requirements: Merit
badges, advancement through the ranks to Eagle.
7.
Boy Scout
Program Helps: Yearly
planning, fun things to do, skill games, ideas, competition and fun.
8.
Woods Wisdom: Contains monthly
activities and campout themes.
9.
Boy Scout
Songbook: Words and score to 136 popular songs.
10.
Merit Badge
Pamphlets: About 120 different
merit badges available. many of these
are in the troop library.
11.
Boy Scout
Knots: How to tie knots and care for rope.
12.
Boy's Life
Magazine: Articles and
cartoons for all boys. Facts and
fiction stories and games.
13.
Troop 508
Handbook: Guidelines, rules
and fees.
14.
Boy Scout
Leader Program Notebook: Aid in
monthly planning and notes.
15.
Troop Planning
Worksheet: Twelve month
planning sheet, weekly program, monthly campouts, special events, good turns,
Boards of Review, etc..
16.
Totin' Chip
Quiz Sheet: Test for Totin'
Chip for axe, Knife, saw, etc..
17.
Troop Resource
Survey Sheet: Adult help information.
18.
Camping
Sparklers: 'How to" book for summer and winter
camping.
19.
Hiking and
Backpacking Trails of Texas:
Mildred J. Little's book detailing more than 60 hiking trails in Texas.
20.
Hikes in Texas: Harry Evans book detailing hikes in Texas.
21.
Patrol and
Troop Activities: Skills,
games and campfire programs. Skits and
storytelling, songs and activities.
22.
Winter Camping: Bob Cary. Field
tested equipment and methods for snow travel, camping, safety and nutrition in
winter outdoors.
23.
Guide to
Camping and the Outdoor Experience: by the Circle Ten OA Lodge. Camps and trails and all the boyscout camps
and facilities.
24.
Texas Rivers
and Rapids, Canoe and Backpack
Guidebook: Ben Nolen and Bob Narramore.
Fun and adventure on Texas waterways and out-of-doors.
25.
Forty Knots: A visual aid for
knot tying-BSA.
26.
Scouting
Magazine: A family monthly magazine.
27.
Rope, Knots,
Hitches and Splices: Wellington Puritan Mills,
28.
Junior Leader
Orientation Workshop Training Manual:
Teaches Patrol Leaders and Senior Patrol Leaders how to lead.
29.
Troop Roster: Boys and adults
listed alphabetically and by job.
30.
Troop 12 Month
Calendar: Next 12 months planned in detail.
31.
Advancement
Chart: Shows each boy's
standing in regards to merit badges, skill awards and rank.
32.
Safety Afloat Guidelines of BSA.
Internet Information: