Troop 549 Policies, Practices and Procedures Manual Aug 2015 · Welcome to Troop 549! We are glad that you have become a part of our Scouting Family! We are excited to welcome your

Revised 8/2015

1 | P a g e

Troop549

Policies,PracticesandProceduresManual

Allwhohavemeditatedontheartofgoverningmankindareconvincedthatthefateofempiresdependsontheeducationoftheyouth.

‐‐

Revised 8/2015

2 | P a g e

IntroductionandHistoryofTroop549WelcometoTroop549! Wearegladthatyouhavebecome apartofourScoutingFamily! W e a r e e x c i t e d t o w e l c o m e y o u r s o n t o t h e g r a n d a d v e n t u r e o f S c o u t i n g . Scoutingisatremendouslyimportantandrewardingendeavorthatyouwillbeabletoshare.OurCharteredOrganizationisSt.PaulPresbyterianChurch,7200BellaireBoulevard(located at the corner of Bellaire Boulevard and U.S. Highway 59). Our troopwasfounded in 1957, and we are proud of our Scouts, their service, and theirachievements.OurTroopmemberscomefromfamilieswholivethroughoutHouston,TheMeadows,Alief,Stafford,MissouriCity,KatyandSugarland.WeareaTroopwithboysofallfaithsandethnicbackgrounds.ThevalueswestrivetoinstillineachboyarebasedonthosefoundintheBoyScoutOathandLaw(seeBoyScoutHandbook). Scoutingstrivestodevelopthefollowing:

Growthinmoralstrengthandcharacter Developmentofcitizenship Developmentofphysical,mentalandemotionalfitness

ThefollowinginformationwillexplaintheoperationsandpoliciesofTroop549andisintendedforScoutsandparentsoftheScoutswhoarenowinthetrooporplantojointhe troop. This handbook will help you and your son understand the roles andresponsibilitieswithinthetroopaswellashowthetroopfunctions.

Revised 8/2015

3 | P a g e

ContentsExpectations ........................................................................................................................................ 6

No.1.KeepYourselfInformed .................................................................................................... 6

No.2.Scoutsneedtoparticipate ................................................................................................. 6

No.3.ParentParticipation ........................................................................................................... 7

YouthMembership ............................................................................................................................. 7

AdultMembership .............................................................................................................................. 7

Meetings ............................................................................................................................................... 8

RegistrationFees ................................................................................................................................ 8

ScoutDues ............................................................................................................................................ 9

ParentalAssistance ............................................................................................................................ 9

Waysinwhicheachparentcanhelpinclude: ............................................................................. 9

Camping .............................................................................................................................................. 10

TransportationandCampSiteFees .............................................................................................. 12

ParentalorGuardianConsent ........................................................................................................ 13

SummerCamp/WinterCamp ........................................................................................................ 13

FinancialAssistanceforLong‐TermCampsandWinterCamp ............................................ 14

DayEvents/SpecialActivities/ServiceProjects .......................................................................... 14

Adventure/HighAdventurePrograms ......................................................................................... 14

VenturingCrew .................................................................................................................................. 15

SpecialUseofFunds ..................................................................................................................... 16

OrderoftheArrow ........................................................................................................................... 16

ScoutsSavingAccounts .................................................................................................................... 16

Fund‐Raisers ...................................................................................................................................... 16

TroopFunds ....................................................................................................................................... 17

Advancement ..................................................................................................................................... 18

3.Advancementthrough FirstClass:. ................................................................................... 18

4.AdvancementfromFirstClasstoEagle: .......................................................................... 18

5.SummerCamporSummerActivityAdvancement: ....................................................... 19

6.MeritBadges: ........................................................................................................................... 19

7.MeritBadgeCounselors ...................................................................................................... 19

8.BoardofReview .................................................................................................................... 20

Revised 8/2015

4 | P a g e

a. Purpose: ............................................................................................................................... 20

b. ConductoftheBoardofReview: ...................................................................................... 20

9. PurchaseofAdvancementMaterials: .................................................................................. 21

10.AdvancementRecognition: ................................................................................................. 22

Health&Safety .................................................................................................................................. 22

Medications ....................................................................................................................................... 24

Training.............................................................................................................................................. 24

Safety‐WhyTrain ........................................................................................................................ 24

MinimumTrainingRequirements ........................................................................................... 25

ScoutmasterandAssistantScoutmasterRequirements: ................................................... 25

TroopCommitteememberrequirements: ............................................................................ 25

TroopParents: .............................................................................................................................. 25

BoyScoutTraining ........................................................................................................................... 26

NationalYouthLeadershipTraining(NYLT) .............................................................................. 26

TroopCodeofConduct .................................................................................................................... 27

Consequences ................................................................................................................................... 28

Definitions: .................................................................................................................................... 28

Probation: .................................................................................................................................. 28

Suspension: ............................................................................................................................... 28

Expulsion: .................................................................................................................................. 28

Seriousmisbehaviors ...................................................................................................................... 29

Troop549CommitteeResponsibilities ....................................................................................... 29

MISSIONSTATEMENT: ................................................................................................................ 29

ROLEOFTHETROOPCOMMITTEE: .......................................................................................... 29

CommitteeChairman ................................................................................................................... 30

Responsibilities: ........................................................................................................................... 30

Secretary ........................................................................................................................................ 30


Treasurer ....................................................................................................................................... 30


Outdoor/ActivitiesCoordinator ................................................................................................ 31


Revised 8/2015

5 | P a g e

EquipmentCoordinator .............................................................................................................. 31


AdvancementChairman .............................................................................................................. 32


TrainingCoordinator ................................................................................................................... 32


BoardofReviewCoordinator ..................................................................................................... 32

CourtofHonorCoordinator ....................................................................................................... 33

ServiceTimeCoordinator ........................................................................................................... 33

LifetoEagleAdvisor ..................................................................................................................... 33

MedicalRecordsCoordinator .................................................................................................... 34

FundraisingChairman ................................................................................................................. 34

MembershipCoordinator ........................................................................................................... 34

MeritBadgeCounselorCoordinator ......................................................................................... 35

Webmaster ..................................................................................................................................... 35

NewsletterCoordinator ............................................................................................................... 35

Appendix 1‐TroopPoliciesAcknowledgement Form ......................................................... 37

Revised 8/2015

6 | P a g e

ExpectationsAsmembersofthetroop‐bothscoutsandparents‐wehavecertainexpectationsforeachother. Theseexpectationshave todowith information, scoutparticipation, andparentparticipation.

No.1.KeepYourselfInformed

For the scouts and parents, we expect you to keep yourself informed about troopmeetings,activities,signupdeadlines,andothermatters.Forthispurpose,weuse:

1. Troopwebsitewithcalendars,announcements,etc.

2. Weeklypostingsasannouncementstothewebsite

3. [email protected]

4. Announcementsattheendofeverytroopmeeting

5. Weuserainout.comforremindersandemergencies

6. TroopLeadershipCouncil(TLC)fortopdowndisseminationofinformationusingthepatrolstructure.

Pleasetakejust10minuteseachweek(Sundayeveningworksbestformost)toinformyourselfaboutwhatishappeninginourtroop.Parents,feelfreetocomeinattheendofmeetingstojoininannouncements.

No.2.ScoutsneedtoparticipateYouthtodayhavesomanydemandsonyourtime.Itishardtofititallin,isn'tit?Whileschool and family always comes first, you have to make hard choices about otherpriorities.Withthatsaid,Scoutingrequiresacertainlevelofcommitmentinorderforyoutohaveameaningfulscoutexperienceandtoadvanceinrank.Hereareourgoals:

1. Eighttroopcampingtrips/outingseachyear

2. Onesummercampeveryyear

3. 80percentofalltroopmeetings

4. OnelocalMeritBadgeFaireachyear

5. Halfofallcommunityserviceprojects(includingEagleProjects)

Revised 8/2015

7 | P a g e

No.3.ParentParticipation

Withascoutinthetroop,itisnotunreasonabletoaskoneorbothparentstoparticipateinthetroop.Itistheparents,afterall,thatkeepthistrooprunning.Weareallbusy,butwemaketimeforwhatisimportantinourlives.Therearemany,many,manywaystovolunteeryourtimeandenergies;somearecriticalpositionsthatweneedhavefilled,suchas:

Scoutmaster AssistantScoutmasters,wealwaysneedmore CommitteeMember HeadAdultLeaderOrganizer(HALO)foranactivity

Otherwaysareasdrivers(ifyourscoutgoes,offertodrive)orattendingaCommitteeMeetingortheannualplanningmeeting,runningoneofthetroopelections,serveonaboardofreviewandthelistgoeson.JustaskyourCommitteeChairman.

ThisisnottheScoutmaster'sTroop.ItisnottheCommittee'sTroop.ItisYOURtroop.Pleasedon'tjustshowup.Getinvolved.Gettrained.Takeanactiverole.Yourscoutwillbebetteroff,youwillbebetteroff,andourtroopwillcontinuetobegreat.Thankyou.

YouthMembership

TojoinBoyScouts,aboymustbe11yearsoldandinthefifthgrade,or10yearsoldandinthefifthgradeandhaveearnedtheArrowofLightAwardasaWebelosScout(CubScouting),butnotyethavereachedtheageof18.Usuallyaboyshouldvisitmorethanonetroopbeforehechoosestojoinone. Itisbesttochoosea troop that isnearone'shomeso that it is convenientforhimtogettoactivities. The boy's parents should accompanyhim to the firstmeeting. After adiscussionwith one of theAdult Leaders, the boy and his parentswill fill out theapplication form, pay the troop registration fee, and receive a BSA healthhistory/physical/consent to medical treatment form, to be turned in within twoweeks. A Scoutmust be registered (Troop registration fee paid) to participate inTroopactivitiesandcampouts(asperBSANationalpolicy).

AdultMembership

TheoperationofasuccessfulScoutTroopdependsupontheservicesofvolunteeradult leaders. Our Scoutmaster (SM) is Bill Folts, Jr. (281)498‐6457 home or

Revised 8/2015

8 | P a g e

(281)543‐2464cell.OurCharteredOrganization Representative(COR),whoistheliaisonbetweenthechurchandtheBoyScoutunit,isMrs.EileenMoore,(713)774‐0314. OurCommitteeChairman(CC)isSherryDieckmann,(713)668‐9048homeor(713)302‐5399cell.AdultswhowishtoholdaleadershippositionmustberegisteredwiththeCouncilandcomplete Youth Protection Training (available on the SHAC website:www.samhoustonbsa.org). ThoseadultswhowishtobecomeAssistantScoutmaster(ASM), CommitteeChairman, or a Scoutmastermust complete Basic Adult LeaderTrainingandYouthProtectionTraining. BasicAdultLeaderTrainingisavailabletoanyadultwhoisinterestedinunderstandingwhatScoutingisaboutandwhowouldliketohavesomefun!Inaddition,thosewhowishtoserveasAssistantScoutmasteror Scoutmastermust complete Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) to beconsideredtrainedinthosepositions.

Meetings

TheScoutsmeeteveryMondaynightintheFellowshipHall/CurrieHallatSt.Paul,from7:30p.m.until 9:00p.m. Scoutsmuststayon thepremiseswhileaTroopMeetingisongoing.Committeemeetings,where theTroopCommitteeMembersgive their reports areheldonthefirstMondayofeverymonthintheChurchLibraryorParlor,from7:30p.m.tillabout8:45p.m. Parentsarewelcometoattendthecommitteemeetingbutdo not have a vote on matters brought before the committee unless they areregisteredascommitteemembers. It is importanttoattendsothatyougetalltheinformationonactivitiesthatyoursonmayhaveinadvertentlyneglectedtogiveyou!Scoutsarebusyguys!

RegistrationFees

TheregistrationfeeforyouthmembershipinTroop549is$100.00peryear*. ThiscoversthefeeforregistrationwiththeSamHoustonAreaCouncil,asubscriptiontoBoy'sLifemagazine,thetroop(BSA)accidentinsurancepolicy,andpartiallypaysforthebadgesandawardsearnedbytheboy,routinesuppliesandequipmentandothertroopexpenses. (Note:thecostofawardsandadvancementinanytroopfarexceedsthisregistrationfee.) IfafamilyalreadysubscribestoBoy'sLife,theannualduesarereducedbytheyearlycostofthemagazineattherequestoftheparents,atthetimeannualfeesaredue.

Revised 8/2015

9 | P a g e

AdultsmaybecomeregisteredwiththeTroopbycompletingaBSAregistrationform,complete Youth Protection Training (YPT) and paying $35.00 to the Troop. ThissecuresBSAmedicalinsurancecoveragefortheadultwhileparticipatinginscoutingactivities(providedacurrentBSAMedicalFormisonfilewiththetroop.)Allannualregistrationfees(adultandboys)mustbereceivedbyOctober31ofeachyear.*Intheeventoffinancialhardship,writtenrequestforspecialpaymentarrangementsmustbesubmittedtotheTroopTreasurer.SuchapaymentplanissubjecttoapprovalbyanexecutivesessionoftheChairman,Treasurer,andanotherdelegatedCommitteeMember.Feesmaybepaidonlineatthetroopwebsite:http://troop549.org

ScoutDues

TheScoutsareencouragedtoberesponsibleforsomeoftheirexpenses,thereforetheboyshavemadeitaTrooppolicythateachScoutshouldpay25centseachweek(oronedollaratthebeginningofeachmonth)tohisPatrolLeader(PL),tobecollectedbytheTroop (boy) Treasurer and deposited in the Troop account by the (adult) TroopTreasurer. ThisisinkeepingwiththeScoutLaw,AScoutisThrifty,andhelpstopayhisway.

ParentalAssistance

ScoutLeadersare there to provideguidanceand encouragement. Parents candomuchtohelptheirsonbyexpectinghimtofollowtheTrooprulesforsafebehaviorandtoshowrespectforhisLeaders,hisfellowScouts,andhimselfatalltimes.All parents are encouraged to become a part of the Troop Committee or AdultLeadership,whichresultsinagreatTroopprogramfortheboys. ParentsofeachScoutareexpectedtocontributetothesuccessoftheTroopbydevotingtimeandefforttoTroopactivities.Waysinwhicheachparentcanhelpinclude:

Revised 8/2015

10 | P a g e

Helpingyoursontobeproperlyuniformed&payingTroopfees. Beingontimetoevents(especiallycampouts). Volunteeringtodrivetocampouts Encouragingyoursontoparticipatefullyinscoutingactivities&projects. Attendingmonthlycommitteemeetings(heldthefirstMondayeverymonth),

to better understand the program and advancementprocess& to get vitalinformation.

AttendCourtsofHonorandScoutSundayCelebrations. RegisteringasanadultleaderwithBSA. Givingtime&sharingyourtalents PerhapsregisterasaMeritBadgeCounselor.

Camping

Troop549plansonecampouteverymonth. Thecamping/eventcalendarispreparedbytheScoutsintheLeadershippositionseveryAugustandisgiventoalloftheScoutsandLeadersinSeptember. Ifyourequireacopyofthecalendar,cometoaparent'smeetingandaskforone. Allofthemonthlyinformationisdiscussedatthesemeetings.Whilecampingisencouragedanddefinitelypartof theScoutingprogram,it isnotarequirementthattheScoutattendeverycampout. Somecampingtripsarerequiredaspart of team building in preparation for adventurepatrols, but that prerequisite isdiscussedinadvanceandmustbecompletediftheScoutwishestoparticipateinthatevent.Costofmonthlycampoutsis$15.00perperson(Scout,Adult,Leader,oryouthguest)forfoodandpatrolchuckboxsupplies. Eachpatrolmustplanitsmenu,purchasefoodandprepareitsownmeals,thereforecampingfeesmustbepaidtotheirPatrolLeaderontheMonday(fivedays)beforethecampout.Ifthefeeisnotpaid,orarrangementsmade, the Scout is not to show up on Friday, expecting to go on the camping trip.Campingfeesarenotrefundableforanyreasondueto the fact that the foodfortheweekendisalreadypurchased,unlessthescoutorhisparentcontacthisPatrolLeaderandtheScoutmasterNOLATERthantheWednesdaybeforethecampout.Cashpaymentispreferredasaboywillbedoingtheshopping.Thereisalsoa$10.00perpersonfuelfeeforcampunder2hoursawayand$15.00forcampouts over two hours away, which is collected on Monday night before thecampoutalongwithfoodfees.

Revised 8/2015

11 | P a g e

Additionalexpensesfordayevents,activitiesorspecialstopswillbeannouncedinadvance. Wealsorequireboystoturninanenvelopewith$20.00(twotendollarsbills)forpurchasingfoodgoingtocampandreturninghomeonSunday.OnFridaynight,whentheboysstopforfood$10willbegiventothescouttopurchasefood.OnSunday thescoutwillbegiven theother tendollars topurchase lunch.Anyof thetravelmealmoneynotspentbythescoutisreturnedtothescout.WepreferthateachScout learntohandlehisownpersonalfinancesresponsibly.Wedonot collect foradults and other family members, they are responsible for bringing money topurchasefoodgoingandreturningfromcamp.

Ourcampingandactivityscheduleisplannedbytheboys,oneyearinadvance. Checkthecalendarand letourTransportation‐CampingChairmanknowthatyouwillbegoing! It'sagoodtimetojoinintheoutdoorexperienceandhavesomefunwhiletheboysshowyoutheirskills!Parents,adults,andsiblingsmaygocampingwiththeTroop. Siblingsmustbewiththeir parents at all times andmay not interferewith the activitiesof the Scouts.SiblingsmaynotsleepinthetentswithScouts. Scoutsmaynotsleepawayfromtheirpatrols unless it is to satisfy a merit badge requirement (such as WildernessSurvival).Guests(WEBELOS&theirparents),andAdultLeaderswillcampwiththeLeadershippatrolandwillpaytheircampingfeestotheSeniorPatrolLeader(SPL)onthesameMondaythatfeesaredueforthecampout. TheseindividualswillbeincludedontheLeadershipDutyRosterforduties.Parents(notinleadership)andsiblingsarewelcometoattendanddofamilycampingat their own campsite near the troop.We stronglydiscouragethemfrombecominginvolvedwiththeirScout’spatrol. Youmayplantoreadagoodbook,takeanaturehikeorgointoanearbytown,etc.,aslongasyoucommunicateyourplanswiththeSeniorPatrolLeaderandtheAdultLeadersforsafetyreasons.Weaskoneparenttovolunteertopurchasefoodforallfamiliesattending.Thetroopwillprovideachuckbox,campstove,andDutchovenifneededforfamilycamping.Adultsandsiblingsneedtobringtheirowntents,sleepingbags,andanyotherequipmenttheyfeeltheyneedandpaycampsitefees.Theboysaretheretodevelopa"team"ofScoutswiththeirpatrol.Weencouragethemtoprovidetheirownsolutionstodifficultieswhichwillariseandprovidesupervisionforsafetyandguidanceasneeded.

Revised 8/2015

12 | P a g e

TheTroopwillleaveontimeforeacheventorcampout. Unlessotherwisestated,wegatheratthechurchat5:30p.m.,loadthetrailerandvehiclesanddepartby6:30p.m.Amapwillbe lefton theScoutroomdoor for latecomers,whoseparentswillhave todeliverthemtothecampsite.

TransportationandCampSiteFees

ParentsareaskedtohelpbydrivingtheboystoandfromcampoutsandareinvitedtocampwiththeTroop. Usually,ifeveryonechoosestodriveon twocampoutsayear,everyweekendiscovered.BSApolicyallowspersons16yearsofage,withsixmonthsdrivingexperienceandavaliddriver’slicense(notpermit),norecordofaccidentsormovingviolationstodriveonacampingtripsolongasthereisanadultinthevehiclewhois21+yearsold.*However, except in the case of medical emergencies, our Troop policy is that alldrivers transporting youthsmustbe 21 yearsor older. Scoutswithvaliddriver’slicensesmaydrivetheirsiblings(Scouts)orotherstoTroopmeetingsonlywiththepermissionofallparents. LocalTourPermitsarerequiredbyBSAfortripsoflessthan500milesoneway,andNationalTourPermitsarerequiredfortripsofmorethan500miles. StandardpassengervehiclesmustbesafeandmeetminimumStateinsurancerequirements. Wedrivewithourheadlightsonandcarrycellularphonesasoftenaspossibletofacilitatesafety.CampsitefeesarepaidbytheTroop. Adultdriversareaskedtopayforgasandanyvehicleentrance/parkingfees;howeveryoumaywishtopurchaseaTexasParksandWildlifeConservationPassportwhichallowsyourvehicleanduptoeightpassengerstoenterwithoutaparkfee. ItisavailableforyearfeethroughtheTPWonlineoratanyStateParkandmaybeusedbyyourfamilyonpersonaltrips.TheTroophasanannualGroupEntrancePermitfortheStateParkswhichcoversmost,ifnotall,oftheentrancefees.Foreachcampoutoreventtherewillbeadesignatedparenttobethecommunicationliaison, to be called in case of an emergency or other need. The Camping/Transportation Coordinator will give out this person's telephone number to theparentsofparticipatingScouts. Itistheparents'responsibilitytoaskwhentheeventwillbeendingandtobeontimetoretrievetheirScout(s).All Scouts are expected to help unload and store equipmentproperlyupon

Revised 8/2015

13 | P a g e

returnfromacampingtrip. Pleasedonottakethemhomeuntilthisisdone!

ParentalorGuardianConsentWrittenpermissionfromtheparent/guardianofeachscoutshallbeobtainedbeforeaScoutmayattendanoutingoractivity.Thisistoobtainareleasefortheleadersandtoprovideforemergencymedicaltreatmentshouldtheparentnotbeavailable.TheScoutfamilymustCompletePartsAandBofthemedicalformwithinonemonthofjoiningthetroop.Themostcurrentversionofthemedicalformcanbefoundathttp://troop549.org.OnecopywillbekeptonfilewiththeTroopandtheScoutfamilyshouldkeepatleastoneothercopyathome.

SummerCamp/WinterCamp

OurTroopgoestoSummerCamp,usually,thelastfullweekinJuneorinJuly.ThetroopalsoattendsWinterCampandit isheldbetweenDecember26th‐31st. TheseLongTermCampsare an excellentopportunity for the boys to earnMerit Badges, enjoynature,meetnewfriendsandpracticetheirScoutingSkills.Troop549goestoElRanchoCima,CampPirtle,CampKarankawa,CampStrake,SidRichardson, along with other camps. Attending these long term camps is highlyrecommended.Thebenefitsarenumerous,butincludetheopportunitytoearnfourormoremeritbadges,teambuilding,leadershipopportunities,andofcoursealotoffun!ThecostsofSummerCampandWinterCampvariesslightlyfromyeartoyear. Eacheventcostsbetween260‐$400dollars.Costsarekepttoaminimumbyprovidingparenttransportationtoandfromtheeventwherepossible.ItisrecommendedthatanewScoutshouldattendatleasttwomonthlycampingtripswiththeTroopbeforeattendingsummerorwintercamp,astheseeventscanbetoughonafirsttimecamper.*CampershipassistanceforSummerCamp(withintheSamHoustonAreaCouncil)orPhilmontHighAdventurecanbearrangedifyoucontacttheTroopTreasurerortheCommitteeChairmaninwritingassoonasyouknowyoumayhaveneedofassistance.(Assistance is available through council resources, but applications must becompletedatleastthreemonthsinadvance. Parentsareaskedtopayforaportionofthefeeaccordingtotheirabilitytopay).

Revised 8/2015

14 | P a g e

FinancialAssistanceforLong‐TermCampsandWinterCamp

The Troop wishes every boy to have the opportunity to attend long‐term camps(Summerand/orWinterCamp)withthetroop. Therearemanybenefits,whicharedescribedabove. IftheTroopisattendingSummerCampoutsideoftheSamHoustonArea Council, the Troopmay provide financial assistance, whichwill be reviewedconfidentially,on a case‐bycasebasis. Pleasecontact theCommitteeChairman orTroopTreasurerinwritingatleastthreemonthspriortothedeadlineforpaymentoffees.ThispolicyalsoappliestoWinterCamp,sincetheSamHoustonAreaCouncildoesnothaveacampershipprogramforWinterCamp.TheScoutLawstates,“AScoutisThrifty.” AScoutshouldhelptopayhisownway. TheScoutshavetheopportunitytohelpearnsomeoralloftheirSummerandWinterCampfeesbyparticipatinginthefallpopcornsaleorinthespringscoutfaircouponbooksale.MoredetailsarediscussedintheFundraisingsection. IfaScoutdoesnotdohisbesttosell popcorn to help pay his own way, the Troop Campership Sub‐Committee(Chairman,TreasurerandathirdCommitteeMember)maychoosenottoapprovetherequestforfinancialassistance.

DayEvents/SpecialActivities/ServiceProjects

When the Scouts plan their program for the year, they include occasional "extra"activities such as bowling, a movie, pizza party, etc. These are optional and areincludedtoaddadayoffunforanyScoutwhowantstospendtimewithhisfellowScouts. ItfostersteambuildingandfriendshipaswellasScoutspirit.OtherspecialeventsincludeScoutSundayatSt.PaulPresbyterianChurch,atimetosharefellowshipwiththecongregationofourCharteringOrganization.TheScoutsareanintegralpartofthisserviceandtrulymakeitanexperienceforthewholefamily.Ourunitparticipatesin severalServiceProjectsthroughouttheYear. Someof theseinclude Scouting for Food, St. Paul’s HalloweenCarnival, Eagle Service Projects andothersastheybecomeknown.

Adventure/HighAdventurePrograms

Whenever adult leadership is available, the Troop conducts an adventure trip for

Revised 8/2015

15 | P a g e

experiencedScouts,whoareatleast14yearsoldandwhomeetothertripcriteriaassetbytheleadershipandhaveattendedatleastonelongtermcampoutwiththetroop.ItisanopportunitytostrengthentheirfriendshipsinScoutingandtochallengethemtousetheskillstheyhavelearnedoverseveralyearswiththeTroop. Thesetripsareplannedbytheboysandadultleaders. Contractsforrequiredcampouts,hikes,fees,etc.mustbeadheredtoinorderthataScoutmayattend. BSAandTroopsafetypoliciesarefollowed. AdvancepreparationoutsideofregularTroopmeetingtimeisusuallyrequired.

Thisisnotarequiredeventandwhilesomefinancialassistance(aloantobepaidback)isavailablefromourtroop,theScoutandhisfamilymustpaythehighadventurefees. ThisisnotastandardhighadventureVenturingCrewtrip.Boyscoutswhoaremembersofbothacrewandthetroopmayusethistripforawardsinacrewiftheircrewadvisorapprovesit.Anycrewawardsearnedaregivenbythecrewthattheboyisamemberofandnotthetroop.Mosttroopsusethehighadventureprogramforolderboyscoutswhohaveearneda lotofmeritbadgesandarenot interested in joiningacrew. Theseboysfound that the regular summer scout program had nothing or only a fewmerit badgeclassesforthemtotake.Thisallowstroopstoengageolderboysinsummercamp.

VenturingCrew(Isaseparateorganizationforboysandgirls14‐20yearold.Weaskallboysinourtroopwhojointhecrewtoattendatleast60percentofthetroopeventswhileinsecondaryschool)

Mostyears,Crew’stakeahighadventuretrip lastingabouttwoweeks,toPhilmontScoutRanch, inNewMexico,BechtelSummit inWestVirginia, SeaBase (Bahamas,Florida,orGalveston),NorthernTierinMNandCanadaorotherplaces.Mostofthesetripsarelimitedtoboysorgirlswhoare14yearsoldbyJanuary1st,(orhavecompleted8thgrade)theyearofthetrip. Thesetripscanbearduousandmayinvolvebackpackingwithheavypacks,andother challenges. The cost is range from about $650.00 to about $2100.00 per person,excludingtravelarrangements.Extrapersonalgearisnecessary,suchasaframedbackpack,hikingboots,raingear. ThecostoftheseitemsisdeterminedbytheScoutandhisfamilyandisadditional. Itiswiseforboystobegintosaveforthistrekayearortwoinadvance.Weencourage all boys that are old enough to consider joining the crew. We find thisorganizationprovidesolderboystheopportunitytodevelophigherleaveskillsthanprovidedbythetroop.Thecrewprogramdealswithhighlevelthinkingskillsneededforcollegeandcareersuccess.Itisatotallydifferentprogramthatallowitsmemberstoearnawardsanddevelopadultskills.

Revised 8/2015

16 | P a g e

SpecialUseofFundsCrewmembersmayusetheirmeritpointsearnedfromvariousmoneymakingprojectstoapplyforfundstopayforacrewcampordues.Ifaboyscoutoradulthasmoneyinourtroopsavingsaccounttheycanrequestatransferoffundstothecrewtreasurertobeused foranycrewcampsandduesat least1month inadvance inwriting to thecommittee’s treasurer. Noonecanpull funds if theyhaveanyoutstanddebt to thetroop.

OrderoftheArrowThe Order of the Arrow (OA) is a national brotherhood ofScout honor campersoriginated tostrengthen Troopsandencourage outdoor experiences.Itisbasedonbrotherhood andcheerfulservicetofellowmen.Troopmembersarenominated andelectedtomembership byfellowScoutsintheirownTroop.Theymustmeetelectionqualificationsthat areestablished bytheOrderoftheArrow.Electionsareheldonceayear,usuallyinFebruary,under thedirectionoftheCouncil'sOAlodge.Nominationsandelectionprocedures areprovidedbythelodge.EligibleadultsmaybenominatedbytheTroopCommittee,butonlyifScoutsareelected.Uponelection,theScoutsandadults willnotbeinformedoftheir election.Parents ofelectedScoutswillbenotifiedoftheirelectionsothattheymayattendtheOAceremonyduringthefallorspringoratsummer camp.Theelectionand"callout"doesnotmakethoseelectedtotheOrderoftheArrowamemberoftheOALodge.Individualsbecomemembers oftheOAuponsuccessfulcompletionoftheOrdealoftheOrder,conductedduringthespringand/orfalloftheyearinwhichtheywereelected.

ScoutsSavingAccounts

Scouts and families may wish to keep money on deposit in a scouts saving account for payment of expenses. No interest will be earned on these savings accounts. Any money left will be returned to the account holder when they leave the troop.

Fund‐Raisers

Troop549workshardtokeepcoststoaminimum. TheTroopparticipatesinseveralfund‐raiserseachyeartohelpcoverthecostsofequipment,supplies,andspecialcamping.

Revised 8/2015

17 | P a g e

Scoutsandadultscanearnmeritpointsbysellingapprovedfundraiseritemsandotherspecialeventsapprovedbythecommittee.Meritpointsmayberedeemedfromthetroopmeritaccountforpaymentofcamping,transportationandannualfeesona1pointto1dollarbasis.Nodirectcashtoanindividualcanbegivenfromthisaccount.

Meritpointsareawardedasfollows:

.7pointsforeachdollarearnedascommissionfromfundraisers.CommissionontroopfundraiserswillbedeterminedbytheTroopCommittee.CommissiononCouncilfundraisersaresetbySamHoustonAreaCouncil.

1pointperhourforpreparingfoodforfundraisers OthermeritpointawardswillbedeterminedbytheTroopCommitteeonacase

bycasebasis. Workforcharitableserviceprojectsarenoteligibleformeritpointawards.

Everyyear,weparticipatein theannualBoyScoutPopcornsalesandScoutFairCouponbooksalesputonbytheSamHoustonAreaCouncil. Scouts(andparentsiftheywish)areencouragedtosellpopcornorcouponbooks. ThisprovidesawaythateachboymayhelpfinancehisownScoutingAdventuresbyearningmeritpointsoncommissionmade fromthesesales. AnyunusedmeritpointswillreverttotheTroopgeneralaccountwhenaboyleavestheTrooportransferstoanothertroop.Troopfundraisersincludefoodsales,cateringandotherfundraisersselectedbyleadershipandapprovedbythetroopcommittee. Boysareneverforcedtoparticipate,noraretheygiven a quota. These fund‐raisers are designated to be shared directly with the boysthroughtheTroopgeneralaccount,whichwillbeusedtopurchaseTroopequipment,paystate park campsite fees, and other necessary Troop expenses. The Troop Committeereservestherighttovoteonwhatpart,ifanyoftheprofitcanbeusedforcommissionontroopsponsoredfundraisers.

TroopFundsTheCommitteewillpre‐approveallTroopactivitiesandallexpenditureoffunds.Troopadult leaderswill not obligate funds, commit Troop involvement, ormake requests forresources without the authority of the Troop Committee. After‐the‐fact requests forreimbursementofexpensesmaybeconsideredbytheCommitteeonacase‐by‐casebasis.Ifanyonedoespurchaseorobligatefundswithoutthecommitteeapprovaltheyshoulddothis knowing that if the committeedoesnot approve it they are responsible formoneyspent.

Revised 8/2015

18 | P a g e

Allawards,equipment,andexpenses for the troopmustbeapprovedby thecommitteebefore any check will be written. In case of an emergency, the Committee Chairman,Treasurer,Secretary,andAdvancementChairmancanvotetospendupto$250.00withamajorityvote.

Advancement1. Definitions: There are many definitions of advancement, but the Scoutingdefinitionmightwellbe,simply,"theartofmeetingachallenge."Forthatisexactlywhatthe BoyScoutadvancement program asks boys to do. Itinvites them to master achallengingseries ofskillsthat prepare them to enjoythe outdoor action scoutingpromises.AstheymastertheseskillstheymoveupthroughsixBoyScoutingranks,eachmoredemandingthanthelastandeachqualifyingformoreexcitingoutdooradventure‐andmorefun.2.Fourstepsofadvancement:

a.TheBoyScoutLearns.

b.TheBoyScoutisTested

c. TheBoyScoutisReviewed.

d.TheBoyScoutisRecognized.Detailsforadvancement arecontainedintheBoyScoutHandbook,whicheveryScoutisrequired tohaveassoonaspossibleafter joiningtheTroop.3. Advancementthrough FirstClass: Fromthe time the Scoutenters theTroopthroughthetimeheearnsadvancementtoFirstClass,heislearningbasicscoutingskillstoenablehimtocamp,hike,swim,cook,tieknots,administer firstaidandperformothertasks in the outdoors and to work as amember ofa team.Thegoalofthe Scoutingprogram,andthisTroop,isfortheScouttoachievetherankofFirstClasswithinhisfirst18monthsintheTroop.4. Advancementfrom FirstClass to Eagle:From the achievement ofFirst ClassthroughEagle,TheScoutwillbedemonstrating leadership,performingserviceprojects,earningmeritBadgesandusingtheskillslearnedwhileachievingthenexthigherrank.TheEaglerankrequiresmoreeffort,asnotedintheBSAAdvancementGuide.

Revised 8/2015

19 | P a g e

5. Summer Camp or Summer Activity Advancement: Each Scout should beencouraged to complete advancement requirementsduring Summer Camp or theSummerActivity.

a. ItisthegoalofthisTroopthateachnewScoutcompleteonemeritbadgeandtheadvancement requirementsfortenderfoot andSecondClassduringSummerCamporSummerActivity.ThegoalforeachexperiencedorolderScoutwillbetocompleteaminimumofthreemeritbadges.

b.BeforeSummerCamporsummerActivity,eachScoutshallcomplete

anindividualadvancement planindicatingthemeritbadgestheywishtoworkon.ThisinformationwillbeconsolidatedandusedinplanningtheprogramfortheTroopatSummerCamporduringtheSummerActivity.

6.MeritBadges:Thegoalofthemerit badge program istoexpand theScout's areaofinterestandto encouragethe Scout tomeet and work with adults in a chosensubject Meritbadges areearnedbyaScoutworking with aregisteredmerit badgecounselor. TheScout isrequiredtocontact the AdvancementCoordinatororScoutMastertodeterminewhoisthe appropriatemerit badgecounselor. TheScoutwillneed tocontact themerit badge counselortoarrangefor times andplaces tomeet(followingBSAYouthProtectionPolicies).TheScoutwillobtainanapplicationforMeritBadge(BSAForm No,412) (blue card) from the AdvancementCoordinator.Thisisathree‐partformthat indicates tothecounselorthat theScoutiseligibleandhasbeenapprovedbythe Troop towork onthe merit badge.When the Scoutcompletestheworkonthemeritbadge,thecounselorwillsigntheformandpresenttheScoutwithtwo ofthe threeparts; thecounselorwillretain the "Counselor copy."TheScoutwillturn in the other two parts signed by the counselor, to the Scoutmaster.Thecompletedmerit badge willbe recordedin the TroopRecords and one part oftheMeritBadgeApplicationwillbestoredwith theTroop's paperrecords. MeritBadgesearnedwillbepresentedtotheScoutduring thenextTroopcourt ofHonor.7.MeritBadgeCounselors

a. AllparentsofTroop 549 Scouts are encouragedto become MeritBadgeCounselors.Eachmeritbadgecounselormustberegistered.CounselorsmustregisterusingtheAdultRegistrationApplication (BSAFormNo.524‐501)andcomplete theMeritBadgeCounselorT r a i n i n g a n d Informationsheet, and submitboth forms totheAquila District forapproval.b . ACounselor is not limited in the numberofbadges he/shemay be registeredto

Revised 8/2015

20 | P a g e

counseland there isnolimit to the numberofbadges aCounselor maywork onwith aspecificScout.However,Troop 549 encouragestheScoutmastertoassign nomore thanthreebadgesperscouttoanyoneCounselor,sothateachScoutgetsthemaximumbenefitfrom theMeritBadgeProgram.

8.BoardofReviewa.Purpose: Thepurposeofthe review isnotanexamination.Rather itis:

(1) todeterminetheScout'sattitudeandacceptanceofScouting's ideals;

(2) toensurethat therequirementshavebeenmetforadvancement;

(3) todiscuss the Scout'sexperiencesintheTroop and the

Troop's program; andtoencouragetheScouttokeepworkingtowardadvancement

ABoard may also be held to counsel a boy about his lack of progresstowardadvancementObjectiverequirementsthat havebeen"signed off' andMeritBadgesthathavebeenearnedmaynotbere‐testedaspartoftheBoardofReview.TheBoardmay refer to a particularskill or Merit Badgein the contextofthe overallprogram,learning difficulties, likes,dislikes, etc. Each candidate is reviewed individually.Thecandidate shall beincomplete uniform.TheBoardshould makeevery attempt tobewarmandfriendlyandbewillingtolistentowhattheScouthastosay.

b. ConductoftheBoardofReview:

(1)Tenderfoot,Second Class,FirstClass,StarandLife:TheBoardofReviewisconductedbyaminimumofthreeadultleaders.ParentsofaScoutbeingconsideredforadvancementbytheBoardmaynotsitontheirson'sboard.TheScoutmasterisnotamemberoftheboardandmaynotattend orparticipateonBoardsofReview;howevertheBoardmayquestion theScoutmaster regardingaparticular ScoutaspartoftheScout'sBoardofReviewandwillallowtheScoutmaster toaddress theBoardofReviewaboutaparticularScoutiftheScoutmastersorequests.ParentsorAssistantScoutmastersmayobserveaBoardofReviewbutmaynotparticipate inDiscussionsofothersuchdeliberations oftheBoard.

Revised 8/2015

21 | P a g e

(2)TheBoardshouldgivetheScouttheopportunity tobringupany

questionshemayhave,andprovideachancefortheBoardtotalkwithhimaboutsuchmattersasgoals,ScoutSpiritandpersonalgrowth.Ifnecessary,theBoardshouldfranklydiscusshislackofprogressandtrytohelphimgetbackontrack.

(3)Afteraninitialinterview,thecandidateisdismissedandthe

Boarddiscusseswhether thecandidateisqualified.Thecandidateisaskedtoreturn beforetheboardandistoldwhether heisqualifiedornot Ifnot,theBoardinformshimwhathemustdotoobtainapproval.

(4)TheBoardwillnotifytheScoutmasteroftheresults.If

advancement belowEagleisapproved,theScoutwillbepresented withtheclothpatchofthenewrankassoonaspossiblefollowingtheBoardofReview.Acertificateofrankwillbepresented atthenextCourtofHonorfollowingtheBoardofReview.ThedatetheBoardofReviewisheld,iftheadvancementisapproved,isthedateoftherankadvancement

(5)EagleRank:TheDistrictAdvancementCommitteeconducts

thisBoardofReview(BOR).MembersontheEagleBORcanincludeteachers,familyfriends,someonefromtheTroop,etc.Essentiallyheshouldaskadultswhoknowhimfairlywellwhoarewillingtoparticipateforhim.TheTroopmayprovideonememberasrequested.TheScoutmasterwillintroducethecandidate,butisnotpermittedtoattend, norparticipateintheBoard.Ifthecandidateisapproved,thedate ofEaglepromotionistheBORdate,buttheEagleRankwillbepresentedlater, at theEagleCourtofHonor plannedbythecandidate.

9.PurchaseofAdvancementMaterials:Advancementmaterialconsistsofrank,meritbadges,leadershippositionpatches,andspecialawardssuchasLifesaving,MileSwim,journey ToExcellenceunit award, etc.These items willbepaid for bythe Troop andpurchasedfromtheScoutShopalongwithpaperworkrequiredbyB.S.A.

Revised 8/2015

22 | P a g e

10.AdvancementRecognition:EachScoutshould bepresentedwith their badgeofrank atatroop meeting assoon aspossible after the board ofReview.MeritBadgesearnedwillbepresentedduring the next Court ofHonor immediatelyfollowing theearneddate ofthebadge.

a. EagleRecognition:Aformal EagleCourtofHonorshallbeheld tohonor ScoutsearningEagle. SincetheEagleCourtofHonorishighlypersonalized,Troop 549willprovide asmuchsupportaspossibleforthisceremony, butallcostsbeyond those normally thoseassociatedwith theadvancement(i.e.rank patchorpresentationkit)shallbepaidbythe familyoftheScout

It is Trooppolicy thatBOR for advancementmustbe scheduledno later than theMondaybeforetheCourtofHonorandonlyaftertheSMconferencehasbeenheld.Impromptuboardsmaybeheldon campoutsif theScout is preparedand theSMconferencehas been completed, provided that there is a Trained and Registeredleaderandtwootheradults(notASMorSM)toconvenethereview.NotificationmustbegiventotheAdvancementChairmanortheCommitteeChairmanoneweekbeforetheBoardofReviewsothatthecommitteemembersmaybenotifiedtoputtheBORontheircalendars.OntheTroopcalendarthereareasteriskstonotespecificMondayswhenBORs'maybescheduled. Itisnottobeassumedthatadultswillbeavailable.

Health&Safety

SamHoustonAreaCouncilprohibitstheuseofsheathknivesandhatchets(handaxes)onCouncilproperty. Theboysdonotneedthem. Pleasedonotbuythem.Troop549prohibits them on all activities, regardless of where we are camping. A simpleregulationBSAScoutknifeortwo‐bladedpocketknifeismorethanadequate. ABoyScoutmustlearntheproperhandlinganduseofaknifeandax,anddemonstratethisknowledgebeforehemaycarryaknifeorentertheaxyardatcamp. Troop549usestheTot‐in'ChiptosignifythataScouthasearnedthisapproval. Ifhehasnotearnedthechip,hemaynotusehisknife. Abuseofsharptoolswillresultinconfiscationoftheknifeorax. Parentswillbenotifiedifthemisbehaviorcontinues.Troop549hasitsowncampingequipmentandencouragestheboystousethisratherthanpersonalgear.Occasionally,theneedarisesthataboymaybringatent,butweencouragecampingwiththebuddysystem(ifthetentsizeisadequate)sinceit isa

Revised 8/2015

23 | P a g e

safetyprocedureandencouragestheboy toworkwithothersandinagroup. TheTroophaspropanelanternswhicharenevertobetakeninsideofatentandwillbeusedunderadultsupervision. Liquidfuels(includingcharcoallightingfluid)arenotallowedonBSApropertyandarenottobetakencampingwiththeTroopatanytime,otherthanPhilmontoraspeciallydesignatedhighadventuretripandonlyunderthedirectsupervisionofa registeredadultwhohasbeentrainedtousethe liquidfuelequipment.Weaponsofanysort(includingslingshots)willnotbetakenonanycampoutorevent,norareknivesorotherequipmenttobeusedasaweaponunderanycircumstances.Scoutsarestrictlyforbiddenfromhavingcellularphonesatanytimeduringacampout. Please leave themathome. Adultsareallowedtohavecellphonesforcommunicationwithotherdriversandforemergencypurposes. Scoutsareforbiddenfromusingany cellphoneduringa campout. Cellphones, electronicgames,radios,headsets,etc.arenotpartoftheoutdoorexperienceandarenottobeusedduringthecampouts. Theywillbeconfiscatedandreturnedtoaparentorguardianuponreturnfromthetrip. However,electronicgamesormusicplayerswithheadphonesmaybeusedwhiletravelingatthediscretionofthedriver,buttheymustbeleftinthevehicleduringthecampout. Troop549and thedriversarenotresponsiblefor lossordamagetoanyitemleftinavehicle.Bringyourelectronicitemsatyourownrisk.Occasionally,the ScoutmasterandTroopCommitteemay request that all electronicdevicesremainathome.ScoutswillrefrainfromdamagingorabusingequipmentbelongingtotheTrooporanotherScout. Hewillbeheldresponsibleforreplacingitemswhicharedamagedorruinedasaresultofwillfulmisconduct.Wediscouragetheuseofprofanity‐AScoutisClean,inbody,mind,andspirit. Scoutsareexpectedtofollowthe12pointsoftheScoutLaw. Whileweknowtherewillbedisagreements and general rough housing, excessively disruptive, physicallyaggressive, or threatening behavior will not be tolerated. Acts of willful harm toanother(ScoutorAdult)will result in an immediatesuspensionof privilegesand aBoardofReviewforDiscipline.ParentsmaybecalledtoretrievetheirsonfromacampoutoreventiftheScoutactsinadisrespectful,unsafeorharmfulmanner.

AScoutwillreceiveaclearwarningfromanAdultLeader,tobefollowedbycounselingbytheSMandanotherAdultLeader,togivetheScoutanopportunitytofindhisown

Revised 8/2015

24 | P a g e

solutions.Ifnecessary,theScouts'parentswillbecalledforaconference(calledaBoardofReviewforCounseling),tohelpdeviseaplanofimprovement(aTroopContract).If thebehaviorpersists,oraTroopcontractisviolated,hemay losetheprivilegeofattending the next Troop campout or event, possibly including Summer or WinterCamp. In the event of this happening, the Troop is not obligated to refundmoneyalreadydepositedwithCouncilcampsorspenttowardattendingtheevent.

Medications

Itisrequiredthatparentscommunicatewhethertheirsonistakinganymedications,the reason for use ofmedication,and if possibleprovidea detailednote includinginstructions for dosage, administration, side effects, food interactions, etc. to theHealthandSafetyCoordinatoratthetimethehealthandconsentformsaregiventotheTroop.IftheScoutwillneedmedicationwhileheisonacampoutorevent,includingantibioticsorothershort termmedications,themedicinemustbegiventoa responsibleadultleaderinmedicinebottlesclearlylabeledwithdose,timetobegiven,doctors'nameandprescription name. (Extra labeled bottles are available if you ask the pharmacist).Pleasesendonlyenoughmedicineforthedurationoftheeventplusoneextradose,incaseofaccidentalspillageor loss. Scoutsarenot tokeeptheirmedicationsin theirpersonalgear. Theadultinchargewillquietlyremindtheboystoreportformedcall.Parentsshouldask for the returnof anyunusedmedicationsand the labeledbottleuponreturnfromthecampout.BSApolicydoesnotrequireanyadultattendingacampouttoadministermedications.Itistheresponsibilityofthescouttotakehisownmedicationsattheappropriatetime.If the scout is unable to do this, then the parent of the scout will be required toaccompanyhimonthecampout.

Training

Safety‐WhyTrainAtalltimes,Troop549willadheretothesafety policiespublishedinthe BSAGuidetoSafeScoutingandanySamHoustonAreaCouncilandAquilaDistrictsupplementalsafetypoliciespublished.

Revised 8/2015

25 | P a g e

MinimumTrainingRequirementsDue to the level and type of activities that Scouts will be participating in,it isimportantthat allScoutleaders, TroopCommitteemembersandTroop ParentsbethoroughlytrainedintheScoutingprogram.Itisthe responsibilityoftheTrainingCoordinator,ontheTroopCommittee,toidentifyupcomingtrainingopportunities,publicize these programs,then collect and verify completedtrainingcertificatesfromtheadult leaders andparentswhocomplete scoutingtrainingprograms.Thebelowlevels are consideredasminimum trainingrequirementsfor those adultsdesiring toattendregulartroop camp‐outsandother outdooractivities:ScoutmasterandAssistantScoutmasterRequirements:

1.FastStart;NewLeadersEssentials;Scoutmaster(LeaderSpecific)Training;IntroductiontoOutdoor LeaderSpecific(IOLS)Training;YouthProtection;SafeSwimDefense;SafetyAfloat,and CPRfrom either the American HeartAssociation orAmerican RedCross.Additionaltrainingmay berequiredforanyclimbingactivity (i.e.ClimbonSafety,COPE,etc.).

2. Attendanceto at least 60percent ofthe Aquila District BoyScout Leader

Roundtables, which are held at the Bellaire Methodist Church at Bellaire &Newcastle, thesecond Thursdayofeachmonth,from7:30‐9:00p.m.

TroopCommitteememberrequirements:

1. FastStart; NewLeaderEssentials; Troop Committee Challenge;YouthProtectionTraining.

TroopParents:

1. FastStart;YouthProtection.YouthProtection,SafeSwimDefenseand SafetyAfloattrainingallhave time limitsontheireffectiveness, usuallytwoorthree years,asapplicable.TheTroopwilltryto provide resourcesfor thistrainingthrough either the AquilaDistrict, or SamHoustonAreaCouncilactivities.TheTroopstrongly encouragesallScoutleaderstoattendmoreadvancedlevelsoftraining, such as BoyScout Leader Roundtablesand SamHoustonArea Councilsponsoredtrainingevents(i.e.University ofScouting). Occasionally,Troop leaderscanattendtrainingatPhilmontScoutRanchTraining Center (PTC),nearCimarron,NewMexico.Attendanceand completion oftherequirementsforWoodbadge is

Revised 8/2015

26 | P a g e

alsoencouraged.

AdulttrainingsessionsonaTroop,District,andCouncillevelareheldregularly. AdultLeadersinTroopLeadershippositions(SM,ASM)mustberegisteredimmediatelyandtrainedwithinthreemonthsafterbeingassignedtheposition. WestronglyencourageparentsandcommitteeofficerstoattendTroopCommitteeChallengeTraining. ItcanbefunandisveryvaluabletowardunderstandingtheTroopCommittee’sroleintheBoy Scout Program. Adults that will be camping on a regular basis are highlyencouraged(notrequired)totakethesametrainingastheSMandASM. Thistrainingcurrentlyhastwosections: aonedayindoorclasscalledScoutmasterSpecific,andaweekendcampoutcalledIOLS. ThesecoursesexplainthePatrolMethodandshowhowatroopisboy‐lead.

BoyScoutTrainingScouts elected or appointed to key positions such as Senior Patrol Leader (SPL),AssistantSeniorPatrolLeader(ASPL),PatrolLeader(PL)andAssistantPatrolLeader(APL),aswellasothers,arerequiredtoattendtheTroopLeadershipCouncilTraining(TLT) workshop which is held on a Saturday, soon after Troop elections arecompleted, every six months. As the Scouts advance in rank and leadershipexperience,theymaybeaskedtohelpleadthistrainingevent.

NationalYouthLeadershipTraining(NYLT)NYLT isanexciting, six‐day,action‐packedprogramdesigned forcouncils toprovideyouthmemberswithleadershipskillsandexperiencetheycanuseintheirhometroopsandinothersituationsdemandingleadershipofselfandothers.NYLTincorporatesthelatestleadershipideasandpresentsfresh,vitalandmeaningfultrainingfortoday'sScoutsandcentersaroundtheconceptsofwhataleadermustBE,whathemustKNOW,andwhathemustDO.ThekeyelementsarethentaughtwithaclearfocusonHOWTO.TheskillscomealiveduringtheweekasthepatrolgoesonaQuestfortheMeaningofLeadership.Contentisdeliveredinatroopandpatroloutdoorsettingwithanemphasisonimmediateapplicationof learning ina funenvironment.Interconnecting concepts and work processes are introduced early, built upon, andaidedbytheuseofmemoryaids,whichallowsparticipantstounderstandandemploythe leadership skills much faster. Through activities, presentations, challenges,discussions,andaudio‐visualsupport,NYLTparticipantswillbeengagedinaunifiedapproachtoleadershipthatwillgivethemtheskillandconfidencetoleadwell.Througha wide range of activities, games, and adventures, participants will work and playtogetherastheyputintoactionthebestScoutinghastooffer.Prerequisites:BoyScouts

Revised 8/2015

27 | P a g e

(first class and above), Varsity Scouts andVenturesmay participate if they: 1) havecompletedTroopLeadershipTrainingTroopsorCrewsintheirunit;2)arebetween14‐18yearsold,(Venturesbetween14‐20)mayparticipateinNYLT3)haveunitleader’srecommendation4)attendthemandatoryorientationclassThecourseisdesignedforyouthmembers14yearsofage.However,ataunitleader'sdiscretion,theymayapproveaScoutat13yearsofagetoattendNYLT.SinceaScoutonlytakesthiscourseonce,wewantthemtogetthemaximumbenefitfromthisexperience;therefore, itisessentialthat they be able to handle the demands of this advanced course, which requiresmaturity, experience, and proficiency in basic camping skills. The fee for NYLT is$225.00.ScholarshipsareavailablethroughtheSamHoustonAreaCouncil.

TroopCodeofConduct

TheTroopCodeofConduct istheScoutOath,ScoutLawandOutdoorCode.TheseitemsarethebasiccomponentsofourScoutingvaluesandbehaviors.BSAprogramsmustbecompletedwithina“safehaven”fromabuse,bullyingoranyformofhazing,initiation, ridiculeorunwanted teasing.Toachieve thatgoal, the followingwillbecompleted:1. All parents, committee members and leaders must undergo the BSA’s Youth

Protection Training. Leaders and committee members who have taken thistrainingwillnothavetorepeatit,unlessthelastdayoftheirtrainingwasovertwoyearsago(YouthProtectionTraining,forbothBSAandtheStateofTexas,isgoodfortwoyears).

2. Allparentswillbegiventheopportunitytoscreentheyouthvideo–“ATimetoTell” – a 33‐ minute Youth Protection Training for the Scouts. Parents may‘screen’’ this video before their Scout has the opportunity to view it. This isstronglyencouraged.

3. All Scouts in the Troopwill be required to view this video –“A Time to Tell.”ParentswhoobjecttothematerialinthevideotapemayoptoutoftheviewingfortheirScoutaftertheyhaveparticipatedintheinitialscreening.

4. All BSA rules and regulations will be followed regarding the reporting of allviolationsoftheBSAYouthProtectionGuidelines.Formoreinformationreadthe“GuidetoSafeScouting”.

5. InMay2013,theNationalBSACouncilvotedtomodifyitsmembershipstandardfor youth members of the Boy Scouts of America, which went into effect onJanuary1,2014.Effectiveonthatdate,noyouthmaybedeniedmembershipintheBoyScoutsofAmericaonthebasisofsexualorientationorpreferencealone.However,anysexualconduct,whetherhomosexualorheterosexual,byyouthofScoutingageiscontrarytothevirtuesofScouting.AsofJanuary1,2014,noBSACharteringOrganizationcandenymembership,ordeferyouthtoanotherunit,

Revised 8/2015

28 | P a g e

basedupontheirsexualorientationorpreference.TheCharteringOrganizationforTroop549,isinfullagreementwiththenewBSAYouthMembershipPolicy.ItwillcontinuetocharterTroop549fortheyearsahead,anditstandsreadytoincreaseitsroleinprovidingqualityBSAprogrammingfortheyouthofHouston,andtheAquilaDistrict.

Consequences

“Disciplineisdefinedastrainingthatcorrects,moldsorperfectsthementalfacultiesormoralcharacter.Punishmentiswhatoccursduetoalackofdiscipline.”Definitions:

Probation:ProbationmeansthattheScoutcannotassumeanytroopleadershippositionand not participate in any troop outdoor activities (including games during troopmeetings)duringtheperiodoftheirprobation.Probationalsomeansthatatleastoneparent must be in attendance, with their Scout, on any patrol or troop activity. TheScoutmasterhasthediscretionastohowtheprobationishandled.Suspension:SuspensionmeansthattheScoutcannotparticipateinanytroopactivity,includingweeklytroopmeetings,trooptrainingevents,outdoorevents,serviceprojects,etc.,fortheperiodoftheirsuspension.Expulsion:ExpulsionmeansthattheScoutisremovedfromtheregistryoftheTroopandcannotreturnorparticipateinanyTroopactivityatanytimeinthefuture.Misbehaviors,suchasdistractingothers,pushing/shovinginanger,oryelling/namecallinginanger,byScoutswillbehandledinthefollowingmanner:

1.1st incident:TheScoutwillbecounseledbytheScoutmaster,orAssistantScoutmaster,awayfromtheotherScoutsinaquietmanner.ThecounselingisaimedathelpingtheScoutthinkofpositivewaysofhandlingissuesorproblems.2.2ndincident:TheScoutwillhaveaconferencewiththeSeniorPatrolLeader,orAssistant Patrol Leader (in the presence of the Scoutmaster or AssistantScoutmaster).Theconferenceisaimedathelpingtounderstandtheissues/problemsandtothinkofpositivewaysinhandlingthem.3.3rdincident:TheScoutwillberequiredtohaveaconferencewiththeScoutmaster,Senior Patrol Leader and the parents of the Scout. The conference is aimed atreviewing the misbehavior and developing positive methods of handling thebehavior.A confidential notewill be forwarded to theTroopCommittee after theconference.

Revised 8/2015

29 | P a g e

4.4thincident:TheScoutmasterorAssistantScoutmasterwillrequiretheremovaloftheScoutfromthetroopactivityormeeting.TheScout’sparentswillbenotifiedthattheScoutisbeingplacedonProbation.5. Further incidents will require suspension or expulsion from the troop. TheScoutmasterwillrecommendtheappropriateconsequencestotheTroopCommittee,fortheirreviewandapproval.

Seriousmisbehaviorssuchasfist‐fighting,wrestlinginanger,intentiontocauseharm(suchasthreateningharm,etc.),willbegroundsforimmediateexpulsionfromtheTroopactivity,withpotentialuseofProbation,SuspensionorExpulsion,afterareviewbytheScoutmasterandTroopCommittee.IftheseriousmisbehavioroccursduringaSummerCamp,orHighAdventureactivity(wheretheactivityisataremotefacility–suchasawilderness area, Philmont Scout Ranch, etc.), the parents will be responsible for alltransportationcostsinreturningtheirScouttothem.TheParentPermissionformwillincludeasimilarstatementregardingresponsibilityfortransportationcostsasaresultof serious misbehavior by their Scout. The Scoutmaster will propose any of theseconsequencestotheTroopCommittee.WiththeCommittee’sapproval,theScoutandhisparentswillbeinformedverbally,orinwriting,oftheconsequences.

Troop549CommitteeResponsibilitiesMISSIONSTATEMENT:TheTroopCommittee,whichisthetroop’sBoardofDirectors,supportsthetroop’sadultandyouthleadersindeliveringaqualityprogramtothetroop’sScouts.ROLEOFTHETROOPCOMMITTEE:

Advise the Scoutmaster on policies relating to Scouting and the charteredorganizationSt.PaulPresbyterianChurch

Assistintransportation AssurethataqualifiedsubstituteleaderisassignediftheScoutmasterisabsent

orunabletoserve. Assurethatqualityadultleadershipisrecruitedandtrained(theScoutmasteris

mostimportant),andencourageadultleadertraining. CarryoutthepoliciesandregulationsoftheBoyScoutsofAmerica(foundinthe

GuidetoSafeScouting). CoordinatetheFriendsofScoutingCampaign. Encouragetheleaders. Ensurethatthetroopprogramprovidesat least10daysandnightsofoutdoor

programmingperyear.

Revised 8/2015

30 | P a g e

Managetroopfinances. Obtainandmaintaintroopequipment. Provideadequatemeetingfacilities. Provideaspiritualtonefortroopmeetings. Recruitandinvolvetroopcommitteemembers. ServeonBoardsofReview Solvebehaviorproblemsthatcannotberesolvedwithinthetroop(governedby

theScoutOathandScoutLaw…AScoutisObedient) Supporttroopprogramdelivery SupportYouthrecruitment

CommitteeChairman

Responsibilities: Organizethecommitteetoseethatallfunctionsaredelegated,coordinatedand

completed. Maintainacloserelationshipwiththecharterorganization’srepresentativeand

theScoutmaster. Interpretnationalandlocalpoliciestothetroop. Preparetroopcommitteemeetingagendas Call,presideoverandpromoteattendanceatmonthlytroopcommitteemeetings

andanyspecialmeetingsthatmaybecalled. Ensuretrooprepresentationatmonthlyroundtables. Securetop‐notch,trained,individualsforcampleadership. Arrangeforcharterreviewandre‐charterannually. Planthecharterpresentation.

Secretary

Responsibilities:

Keepminutesofmeetingsandsendoutcommitteemeetingnotices. Handlepublicity Ateachtroopcommitteemeeting,reporttheminutesfromthepreviousmeeting. ChairsCommunicationssub‐committee

Treasurer

Responsibilities: Keepaccuratetroopfinancialrecords. Handlealltroopfunds,paybillsontheauthorizationofthetroopcommittee. Keepadequaterecords Supervisemoney‐earningprojects.

Revised 8/2015

31 | P a g e

MaintaintheBoysandAdultsSavingsAccounts MaintaintheMeritPointsforScouters AssistintheFriendsofScoutingcampaign Reporttothetroopcommitteeateachmeeting.

Outdoor/ActivitiesCoordinator

Responsibilities:

Securespermissiontousecampingsites(includingfees). Identifiesandreserves,schedulesorprocuresadditionalresourcesforactivities

suchascertifiedinstructors,guides. WorkswithEquipmentCoordinator tosecureanyneeded/requiredequipment

foractivities. Promote,throughfamilymeetings,attendanceattroopcampouts,camporees,and

summercamptoreachthegoalofanoutingpermonth. Servesastransportationcoordinatorincludingmaintainingupdatedlistoftroop

vehicles, including driver information, insurance and passenger capacity forpropercompletionoftourpermit.

EnsuresalltroopvehiclesanddriversareincompliancewithBSAstandardsforsafetravel.

Coordinates drivers to and from all troop activities to ensure adequatetransportationofscoutsandequipmenttoandfromactivities.

Ensureamonthlyoutdoorprogram. Enlistanactivitiescoordinatorforeachmonthlycampoutoractivity. PromotetheNationalCampingAward Preparesallpermissionslips foractivities includingotherformswhichmaybe

requiredsuchaswaiversoradditionalmedicalforms. PreparesandsubmitsalltourpermitstoCouncilforalltroopactivitiesinatimely

manner. Reporttothetroopcommitteeateachmeeting ChairstheOutdoorActivitiessub‐committee

EquipmentCoordinator

Responsibilities:

Supervisesandhelpsthetroopprocureneededequipment. Work with the Quartermaster(s) on inventory and proper storage and

maintenanceofalltroopequipment. Makesperiodicsafetyinspectionsofalltroopequipment. Coordinatesreplacementofdefective,brokenorunusableequipment. EnsureannualrenewalofTroopTrailerregistration.

Revised 8/2015

32 | P a g e

Reportstothetroopcommitteeateachmeeting.AdvancementChairman

Responsibilities:

EncouragesScoutstoadvanceinrank. EnterallScoutmeritbadgesandranksearnedinInternetAdvancement. Makesapromptreportonthecorrectformtothecouncilservicecenterwhen

atroopboardofreviewisheld. Securesbadges,certificatesandotherawards. Workswiththetrooplibrariantobuildandmaintainatrooplibraryofmerit

badgepamphlets,books,resourcesandotheradvancementliterature. Reportstothetroopcommitteeateachmeeting.

TrainingCoordinator

Responsibilities: Ensuretroopleadersandcommitteemembershaveopportunitiesfortraining. Maintain information about up‐to‐date trainingmaterials, DVD’s and other

trainingresourcesandwheretoobtainthem. Workwith thedistrict training team in scheduling required training for all

newregisteredadults. EnsureallregisteredadultscompleteYouthProtectionTrainingeverytwo(2)

years. Maintainsrecordsofalltraining/certificationscompletedbyregisteredadults

within troopand forwards completiondates toAdvancementChairman forentryintoTrooprecords(SuchtrainingshallincludeallrequiredBSAtrainingaswell as voluntary certifications in such areas as first aid/CPR, climb onsafety,lifeguard,etc.)

Maintains records of all training completed by scouts and forwardscompletiondatestoAdvancementChairmantoenterintoTrooprecords

AssistScoutmasterinorganizingTroopJuniorLeaderTraining. AssistOutdoorActivities Coordinator in identifying certified guides and/or

instructorsfortroopactivitiesasrequired. Reporttothetroopcommitteeateachmeeting

BoardofReviewCoordinator

(ReportstoAdvancementChairman)Responsibilities:

Confirmthatallrankrequirementsincludingservicetime,appropriatemeritbadges, trooppositionof responsibilityand time in rankhavebeenmetby

Revised 8/2015

33 | P a g e

conferringwith theAdvancementChairman, ServiceTimeCoordinator andtheScoutmaster.

Organizes/convenesBoardsofReviewforrankadvancements. Report to the Advancement Chairman the names of candidates who have

successfullycompletedanygivenrank.CourtofHonorCoordinator

(ReportstoAdvancementChairman) Responsibilities: Assistthepatrolmemberswhoaredesignatedtobe inchargeofeachCourtof

Honorwiththeirplansfortheevent. AssistwiththeplanningofanyEagleCourtsofHonorifrequestedbythefamilyof

theEaglecandidate.• MaintainEagleCourtsofHonorreferenceandhistorymaterials.

ServiceTimeCoordinator(ReportstoAdvancementChairman)Responsibilities:

Coordinatesandschedulesanyrequestedtroopservicetime. MentorstheTroopScribeinkeepingaccuraterecordofattendanceandtime

workedbyscoutsforserviceprojects. Forwardsattendance/timereportstoAdvancementCoordinatorforentryin

Trooprecords. Be familiar with the service time needs of all scouts and encourage

participationinservicetimeeventsastheybecomeavailable. ConfirmwiththeAdvancementChairmanandBoardofReviewCoordinator

servicetimerecordsforallscoutsrequestingaScoutmasterconference. IntheScoutmaster’sAbsence,approvesordisapprovesindividualrequestsfor

servicetimebasedontheguidelinessetforthbytheBoyScoutsofAmericaandTroop549GuidelinesandPolices.

LifetoEagleAdvisor

(ReportstoAdvancementChairman)Responsibilities:

MeetsregularlywithLifeScouts toensuretimelycompletionsofremainingrequirementsforEagle

Assists Life Scouts in identifying Eagle Projects through the charterorganizationrepresentativeandothercommunityresources

AssistsLifeScoutsinthepropercompletionoftheEagleProjectworkbook.

Revised 8/2015

34 | P a g e

Utilizesmaterials/training available throughBSA to effectivelymentor LifeScouts.

MedicalRecordsCoordinator

(ReportstoOutdoorActivitiesCoordinator)Responsibilities: Coordinate annual collection troop medical forms during troop re‐charter

process. WorkswiththeOutdoor/ActivitiesCoordinatortoseethatalladultsandscouts

whowillattendanytroopactivity includinghighadventureandsummercamphavecurrentandpropermedical formswell inadvanceofthebeginningoftheactivity.

Maintain medical form notebooks and makes at least one available to theScoutmasterordesignatedhealth/safetyofficerforalltroopactivities.

FundraisingChairman(ReportstoTreasurer)Responsibilities: Researchanddevelopfundraisingprojectsforthetroopandpresentideastothe

troopcommitteeforapproval. Enlistacoordinatortosuperviseeachproject. Obtainproperauthorizationsorpermitsasnecessary. CoordinatewiththeTreasurerforthecollectionofallfundraisingproceedsand

formakinganyrequiredpaymentstovendors. Maintainfundraisingrecordsforthepurposeofcalculatingthedivisionoftroop

andboyearnings.MembershipCoordinator

(ReportstoTreasurer)Responsibilities: MaintainsTroopRoster AssistsCommitteeChairmanwithannualre‐charter Coordinates with Webelos to Scout Coordinator to ensure successful/smooth

transitionofWebelosintoTroop. MaintainsandhasavailableatallTroopMeetingswelcomepackets,duesforms,

health forms, adult resource surveys, troop policies, and applications for newscoutsandadults.

ConducttheTroopResourceSurvey.

Revised 8/2015

35 | P a g e

MentorsTroopScribeinthecollectionofallforms,membershipfeesandtroopdues.

MentorsTroopScribeinkeepingaccurate/regularattendanceatTroopMeetingsandActivities.

Contactsmemberswhoareabsentwithoutcause/notificationforextendedperiodtosurveyinterest.

Serves on re‐chartering subcommittee made up of Committee Chairman,Treasurer,MembershipCoordinatorandScoutmaster

MeritBadgeCounselorCoordinator

(ReportstoTrainingCoordinator)Responsibilities: MakeyearlyreminderstoMeritBadgeCounselorsaboutthenecessityofgetting

theirrenewalformsinbeforeDecember31ofeachyear. Seekoutadultsaffiliatedwiththetroopwhospecializeinareasthatwouldallow

themtobecomeMeritBadgeCounselors. Emphasizeseekingadults toserveascounselors foreachEaglerequiredmerit

badge. DirectnewMeritBadgeCounselorstoattendtherequiredtrainingatamonthly

roundtable. Maintainsarosteroftroopmeritbadgecounselorsand/orotherlistprovidedby

councilofmeritbadgecounselorsforreferraltoscouts.Webmaster(ReportstoSecretary)Responsibilities:

MaintaintheTroop’swebsite. Postcurrentnewsletters,calendarsandappropriatephotosandprovidelinks

toscoutrelatedsites. Assurethatnoinformationispublishedthatcouldpresentanytypeofsecurity

risktomembersincludingfullnamesandaddresses,etc. Ensurenooffensiveordegradingmaterialispublished. Returncorrespondenceasappropriatetoanyonewhosendsinquiriestothe

webmastereitherbywayofemailorguestbookentries.NewsletterCoordinator

(ReportstoSecretary)Responsibilities:

Revised 8/2015

36 | P a g e

Creates a monthly newsletter highlighting troop activities and other scoutingrelated articles such as upcoming training opportunities, district and councilactivities.

MentorstheTroopHistoriantoprovidearticlesandpicturesinboththemonthlynewsletterandtroophistorybook.

SolicitsarticlesfromScoutmaster,patrolsandothermembersofthetroop.Note:Theaboverepresentsan idealTroopcommittee. WhenwedonothaveenoughadultstoperformtheabovedutiesitistheresponsibilityoftheCommitteeChairmantomakesureallpositionsarecoveredbyacommitteememberwhoiswhilingtotakeonadditionalresponsibilities.Westronglyencouragealladultstopleaseconsiderbeingamemberandservinginoneoftheabovepositions.Only registered members that have paid their dues, taken youth protection training(YPT),andhaveanup‐to‐datemedicalformonfilewiththetroopareallowedtovoteoncommitteedecisions.ScoutmastersandAssistantScoutmastersarenotmembersofthecommittee.Non‐members arewelcome to attendand listen to itemsbeingdiscussed.Non‐membersshouldnotmakecommentsunlessinvitedbythecommittee.

Revised 8/2015

37 | P a g e

Appendix 1‐TroopPoliciesAcknowledgement FormThisistocertifythat Ihavereviewedthepoliciesandprocedures contained intheTroop549Policies,PracticesandProceduresManual,whichwasprovided tomewhenmyson,___________________________,memberofTroop549Ifurther attest that IhavereviewedtheTroopCodeofConductsection,withmy

sonandthatwebothacknowledgeandagreethatwefullyunderstandthe

importance ofmaintainingorder anddisciplinewithintheTroopwhileattending

andparticipating infunctionsandoutdoor activities.

Weherebyagreetothese policiesandprocedures andpledgetoabidebytherulesof

conductandbehaviorthatarenecessarytoparticipate inBSAandTroop549

programsandactivities.Signedthis dayof _,201_____.ParentSignature:

ParentPrintedName

ScoutSignature:

ScoutPrintedName:

KeepacopyandturnoriginalintotheTroopTrainingChairman

Documents

Troop 549 Policies, Practices and Procedures Manual Aug 2015 · Welcome to Troop 549! We are glad that you have become a part of our Scouting Family! We are excited to welcome your