Advancement
Scouting provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps in overcoming them through the advancement method. Scouts plan their own advancement and progress at their own pace as they meet each challenge. Scouts are recognized and rewarded for each achievement, which helps them gain self-confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a Scout grow in self-reliance and in the ability to help others.
There are four basic steps in Scout advancement, and they apply to all six ranks.
Step 1: The Scout learns. They learn Scouting skills by taking an active, hands-on part in troop and patrol meetings, outdoor programs, and merit badge work. This learning s the natural outcome of their regular Scouting activities — their “on-the-job” training.
Step 2: The Scout is tested. When their leaders see that the Scout has mastered a given skill and satisfied a given requirement, they tell them so — and record the achievement.
Step 3: The Scout is reviewed. When a Scout completes all requirements for a rank, they appear before a “board of review” composed of members of the troop committee. Their purpose is not to retest the Scout, but to make sure the Scout has met all the requirements, to chat with the Scout about how they feel they are getting along with the troop and its program, and of course to encourage them to keep advancing.
Step 4: The Scout is recognized. When a Scout is certified by the Board of Review, they are awarded the new badge of rank as soon as possible, normally in a ceremony at the next troop meeting. The Scout should be recognized again at the troop’s next court of honor.
https://www.mountbakerbsa.org/advancement/scouts-bsa-advancement/
Your leadership team is here to help! Any questions, contact our Advancement Chair!
To earn your Scout rank, a Scout must complete certain requirements found in the book. These requirements are based on basic knowledge of Scouting skills and ideas as well as knowing the Scout Oath, Law, Motto & Slogan.
To earn your Tenderfoot rank, a Scout must complete certain requirements found in the book. These requirements are based on different categories of knowledge including physical fitness, service, introduction to leadership skills, knots, enhancing their general Scouting knowledge, and showcasing their Scout spirit.
*Note: A Scout can work on both second class and first class skills while working on the Tenderfoot rank. Ranks must be earned in order though.
To earn your Second Class Rank, a Scout must complete certain requirements found in the book. These requirements include being an active part of your troop, basic knowledge of Scouting skills, fire safety, outdoor cooking skills, leadership skills, physical fitness, first aid, personal growth and Scout Spirit.
*Note: A Scout can work on first class skills while working on the second class rank. Ranks must be earned in order.
To earn your First Class Rank, a Scout must complete certain requirements found in the book. These requirements are based will include being an active part of your troop, personal growth, food safety and cooking skills, water safety, navigation, first aid and continuing to show Scout Spirit.
Thus far you have learned the basic Scout skills. At this point, your focus will shift a bit and you will be focused more on leadership skills and being an active member of your troop. In addition to the skills outlined in the Scout book, you must hold a Leadership Position for at least four months, perform at least six hours of community service and earn six merit badges. Four of the merit badges earned to this point must be Eagle required.
The Life Rank skills required can also be found in the Scout book. In addition to these skills, a Scout must hold a Leadership Position for at least six months, perform six hours of community service and earn an additional five merit badges. Three of the merit badges earned during this rank must be Eagle required.
Eagle Rank
The Eagle Scout Award. It’s Scouting’s highest rank and among its most familiar icons. People who have earned it count it among their most treasured possessions.
The National Eagle Scout Association from the Boy Scouts of America website states, "The award is more than a badge. It’s a state of being. You are an Eagle Scout – never were. You may receive the badge as a young person, but you earn it every day as an adult. In the words of the Eagle Scout Promise, you do your best each day to make your training and example, your rank and your influence count strongly for better Scouting and for better citizenship in your troop, in your community, and in your contacts with other people. And to this you will pledge your sacred honor."
Check out this link to see a suggested Road to Eagle which will outline your advancement and merit badge options! Road to Eagle
Eagle Scout Pledge
I reaffirm my allegiance To the three promises of the Scout Oath. I thoughtfully recognize And take upon myself The obligations and responsibilities Of an Eagle Scout. On my honor I will do my best To make my training and example, My rank and my influence Count strongly for better Scouting And for better citizenship In my troop, In my community, And in my contacts with other people. To this I pledge my sacred honor.