Scoutmaster Conference

When a scout has completed all of the requirements for a rank, he can schedule a Scoutmaster conference.  A Scoutmaster conference can be scheduled by emailing scoutmaster@bsatroop834.org or by walking up to the Scoutmaster at a meeting and asking for one.  Keep in mind that the Scoutmaster could be busy during a meeting, so planning ahead is wise.

Most of the requirements needed to reach First Class can be tested and signed off by scouts who are at least First Class.  A Scoutmaster conference has several parts:

• Congratulations... for learning and growing.   Discussion of recent trips, relationships, leadership lessons along the way

• Leadership and Ethics... the scout will be asked to reflect on leadership and how he is learning to live by the Oath, the Law, etc.

• Skills Mastery... the scout may be asked to demonstrate knots, first aid, map and compass... any of the skills he learned while working toward the rank.

If a scout is unable to demonstrate skills, or lacks the required knowledge of the Oath or Law the SMC will be extended to another meeting time.   A scout never "fails" an SMC... but rather is given the opportunity to take the time to relearn before continuing with the conference.