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Scouts BSA (formerly called “Boy Scouts”) is the traditional Scouting experience where boys and girls can have their share of adventure in the great outdoors. Develop a love of service by volunteering in your community, boost your leadership skills through fun and exciting challenges, and create memories of a lifetime with no prior Scouting experience required!

The Boy Scout program was renamed as Scouts BSA in February 2019 when the program was opened to girl members.  Members of the Scouts BSA program are referred to as “Scouts.”

A Troop is an organization of youth enjoying the challenges and adventures of Scouting. (If you were a Cub Scout, the Troop is roughly equivalent to the Cub Scout Pack.)

Scout Troops are made up of Patrols with each of patrol’s members sharing responsibility for the patrol’s success.  (If you were a Cub Scout, a Patrol is like your Den.) Everyone in the patrol will have skills and knowledge to share.  By working together in small groups, Scouts lean together, make plans and turn their ideas into actions.

The Troop and each patrol have various leadership positions that Scouts may fill.

The Boy Scouts of America designates the Sunday that falls before February 8 (Scouting Anniversary Day) as Scout Sunday; a day on which we recognize the contributions of young people and adults to Scouting.

Every year, Troop 457 celebrates the birthday of our program by supporting our charter organization (English Lutheran Church) by participating in their Sunday service and hosting a pancake breakfast for the congregation to say Thank You to the church for sponsoring our Troop since 1940.

A chartered organization is a community-based group whose objectives, mission and methodologies are compatible with those of the BSA. It agrees to use the Scouting program to further its mission to serve young people. The partnership is intended to be deeper than, say, a sponsorship arrangement between a youth baseball team and a local business.

Troop 457’s Charter Organization is English Lutheran Church of Zelienople, PA.

Learn more in Scouting Magazine.

• The Scouts BSA program is open to any youth who meet the following criteria:
  • if they are at least 10 years old, currently in the fifth grade and register on or after March 1st; OR
  • have earned the Arrow of Light Award and are at least 10 years old; OR
  • are age 11 but have not reached age 18.
• Per BSA policy, boys and girls in the Scouts BSA program must be a part of separate Troops (although these Troop may share a Charter Organization and a Troop Committee).
  • Troop 457 is a boy-only Troop.
  • We are not currently affiliated with a girl-only Troop, however we will explore this option if there is sufficient interest from female Scouts and their parents.

No.  While the Scouts BSA program is co-ed (effective 2019), the BSA requires that individual Troop be either Boy Troops or Girl Troops.  Troop 457 is chartered as a Boy Troop.

A minimum of 5 youth is required to charter a new Troop.  To date, there has been insufficient interest to charter a girls Troop.

In order to get started with the Troop, we ask that you complete the following items on our Quick Start Checklist:

1. Complete BSA Youth Membership Application
2. Complete Annual Health & Wellness Form
3. Obtain / Purchase Scout Uniform & Other Gear
4. Complete Troop 457 New Member Boot Camp
5. Activate TroopTrack Account (An invitation has been sent to this email address from [email protected].  Be sure to check your Spam filter if you did not receive the email.)

Coming Soon

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We work hard to keep our Scouts and other program participants safe during our events, but sometimes injuries happen. Scouts are required to complete an Annual Health & Medical Form every year so that our Leaders have the information and authorization they need to address any health issues that may arise.

Download a Copy of the Health Form

Download a copy of the BSA Health Form using the button below.  This form is the official Annual Health and Medical Record of the Boy Scouts of America. It is not valid if modified or altered. This includes deleting or crossing out sections.

Download BSA Health Form

There are three parts to the BSA Health Form:

• Part A: Informed Consent, Release Agreement, and Authorization
• Part B: General Information/Health History
• Part C: Pre-Participation Physical

Parts A & B are required to participate in any Scouting event and can be completed by a parent or guardian.  Part C is required for any resident campers or for events of 72 hours or more.  Part C must be completed by a certified and licensed physician (MD, DO), nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.

Completing Part A (Page 1)

Part A of the BSA Health Form is focused on providing the Troop and the BSA with consent for the individual to participate in Scouting activities, releases the BSA from claims that could result from participating in Scouting activities, and authorizes the Troop and the BSA to deliver all or some of the Scouting program to the individual.

• Page Header
  • Enter the individual’s Full Name and Date of Birth in the specified fields.
  • The High-adventure base participants section does not need to be completed.
  • Duplicate this information on all subsequent pages (If you are completing this form electronically, this information will be populated on all subsequent pages.)
• Informed Consent, Release Agreement, and Authorization
  • Read the content of this section.
  • If you do not want your Scout to use a BB device, check the box next to Checking this box indicates you DO NOT want your child to use a BB device.
  • If you wish to restrict the activities the individual can participate in, list them in the section titled List participant restrictions, if any.
  • If the individual has no restrictions, check the box marked None.
  • You will complete the Participant and Parent / Guardian Signatures in a future step.
• Adults Authorized / Not Authorized to take youth to and from events.
  • This section identifies the adults who are or are not permitted to take Scouts to or from events. Include yourself as an authorized Adult.  The Pack will only let authorized adults pickup a Scout after an event.  For Council events (i.e. Day Camp), the individual picking the Scouts up from the event must be listed in this section.

Complete Part B (Pages 2 & 3)

Part B1 (page 2) of the BSA Health Form gathers general information about the individual and a health history. Part B2 (page 3) continues gathering information about the individual’s health history including information about allergies, medications, and immunizations.

• General Information
  • Populate the fields listed in the document.  Enter the following information for the  Unit Leader and Council / unit information:
    • Unit Leader: Tim Maloney
    • Unit Leader Mobile #:  (Check TroopTrack for this information)
    • Council Name/No: Moraine Trails Council (500)
    • Unit No: Troop 457
  • Include the name of the individual’s Health/Accident Insurance Company and Policy Number as well as a photocopy/scan of both sides of the individual’s insurance card.  (Some insurance providers allow you to download a PDF copy of your insurance card which can be included with your Health Form submission.)
  • For the emergency contact, we encourage you list an individual who is less likely to be attending events with the individual.
• Health History
  • Check the Yes or No box next to each condition to indicate whether the individual has (Yes) or does not have (No) the condition.
  • If you check Yes, explain the condition in the space provided.  Note that some conditions have additional questions that should be answered if they apply.
  • If you need additional space to explain a condition or to answer the last two questions (list surgeries / hospitalizations and other medical conditions not listed), attach additional pages to the completed health form.
• Allergies / Medications: Complete the fields in this section.  Be sure to do the following:
  • If the questions doesn’t apply to the individual, be sure to check NO to the question.
  • If the individual has allergies, provide additional specifics in the provided space or attach additional pages to provide details.
  • If the individual does NOT routinely take medication, you should check the Check here if no medications are routinely taken option.
  • Attach additional pages if you need more space to list medications but be sure to check the If additional space is needed, please list on a separate sheet and attach option.
  • The Yes/No option below the medication listing is authorization for BSA Leaders to administer non-prescription medication to the individual.
    • Marking NO prohibits BSA Leaders from administering non-prescription medication.
    • Marking YES allows BSA Leaders to administer non-prescription medication.
    • You can limit the non-prescription medication that can be administered by listing them in the space marked Non-prescription medication administration is authorized with these exceptions.
  • For Youth Only: If you list any prescription medications or authorize non-prescription medication, a parent must sign in the location marked Administration of the above medications is approved for youth by.
• Immunization:
  • The BSA requires that participants have a tetanus immunization received within the last 10 years.  All other immunizations are recommended by not required.  (See also How do I request an immunization exemption?)
  • Check off whether the individual has (YES) or has not (NO) received the immunization.
  • If the individual has had the disease (regardless of vaccination status), list the date of the infection.
  • List the dates of the individual received the immunization in the space provided.
  • Exemption to immunization:If the individual is would like to be considered exempt from the immunization requirements, check YES and see How do I request an immunization exemption? for additional instructions.
  • NOTE:  You may attach a copy of the individual’s immunization record to support this section, however you must populate the Yes / No and Had Disease items in this section.
• Additional Medical History
  • There is a small box on the right side of the form where you can capture any additional information about the individual’s medical history.
  • Add any additional information that may be relevant to how the individual participates in the Scouting program.
  • Attach additional documentation as necessary.

Complete Part C

Part C of the health form requires a medical professional to complete a physical for the individual. The BSA requires that the form be completed by certified and licensed physicians (MD, DO), nurse practitioners, or physician assistants.

Print, Sign, and Submit

If you completed the form electronically, print it out so if can be signed.

• For Youth:
  • Have the Youth sign and date the document on Page 1 under the Participant’s Signature.
  • Have a parent or guardian sign and date the document on Page 1 under the Parent/guardian Signature for youth.
  • Have the Youth sign and date the document on Page 1 under the Participant’s Signature.
  • If any prescription medications were listed or administration of non-prescription medication were authorized, the parent/guardian should also sign the location marked Administration of the above medications is approved for youth by on page 3.
• For Adults: Sign and date the document on Page 1 under the Participant’s Signature.

You can submit the completed and signed forms and any additional supporting documentation as a scanned or a hard copy to any adult Troop Leader.

Submission Checklist

When you submit the form, make sure the following is true:

• All information is complete and accurate to the bet of your knowledge
• You included all three/four pages of the Health Form.
• All required fields are populated.
• The appropriate signatures are on page 1 and (if necessary) page 3.
• You included a copy of both sides if the individual’s insurance card.
• You include any relevant supporting documentation (i.e. immunization record, immunization exemption request, additional medications, additional explanations for the medical history)

Documented medical conditions that prevent safe administration of immunizations can be documented on the Annual Health and Medical Record.

You may also request an exemption using this request: Immunization Exemption Request.

The Immunization Exemption request will typically not impact the individual’s ability to participate in Den and Pack activities.  However, the individual requesting an exemption may be prohibited from participating in some Council or other activities considered higher risk.

Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat guidelines tailor activities to swimming ability. The BSA requires that adults and youth participating in aquatic activities to undergo a Swim Test to evaluate their swimming skills and determine what activities are appropriate.

Swim Classifications

The BSA Swim Test is administered by an Aquatics Instructor, BSA; BSA Lifeguard; BSA Swimming & Water Rescue; or other lifeguard, swimming instructor, etc.  Participants start the swim test and are classified based on their ability to complete the following requirements:

• SWIMMER’S TEST:
  • Jump feet first into water over the head in depth, level off, and begin swimming.
  • Swim 75yards in a strong manner using one or more of the following strokes: side stroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or crawl;
  • then swim 25 yards using an easy resting back stroke.
  • The 100 yards must be swum continuously and include at least one sharp turn.
  • After completing the swim, rest by floating.
• BEGINNER’S TEST:
  • Jump feet first into water over the head in depth, level off,
  • swim 25 feet on the surface,stop, turn sharply, resume swimming as before, and return to starting place.
• NON SWIMMER: Anyone who has not completed the beginner or swimmer tests is classified as a nonswimmer.

Participants must recertify annually.  The Troop typically organizes a swim test in the Spring and June for Scouts to complete the Swim Test requirements prior to Summer Camp.  Scouts who do not complete the test before arriving at camp can complete it at camp.

On January 1, 2023 the BSA revised Scout and Star rank requirements (#6) as follows (edits in red):

With your parent or guardian, complete the exercises in the pamphlet How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide and earn the Cyber Chip Award for your grade or view the Personal Safety Awareness videos ( with your parent or Guardian’s permission)

There are two components of this requirement.

How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse: A Parents Guide

Parents and Scouts should read the Youth Protection pamphlet that is included at the front of your Scout’s Handbook. (An online version is available here.)

Discuss the questions at the end of the pamphlet and make sure everyone understands what the BSA’s policies are regarding youth protection.

Cyber Chip / Personal Safety Awareness videos

The BSA is phasing out the Cyber Chip program in favor of the Personal Safety Awareness videos so the Troop encourages our Scouts to watch these videos on Scouting.org.

The Troop typically spends one or two meetings each year for Scouts to watch the Personal Safety Awareness videos.  If a Scout misses one of those meetings, they can watch these videos on Scouting.org.

After Completing These Activities

Once a Scout has completed the pamphlet exercises and watched the Personal Safety Awareness videos, parents should email the Scoutmaster to inform him the Scout has completed the requirement.  At our next Troop meeting, the Scoutmaster or other leader may ask some quick questions to confirm understanding before approving the requirement.

“Who can attend Troop activities” is probably one of the questions most frequently asked of our Adult Leaders.  The answer to that question is determined by the Guide to Safe Scouting, which establishes the official BSA rules and policies for Scouting activities.

The Troop must comply with these policies, not only for the safety and security of our Scouts, adult leaders, and event attendees; but also to ensure the event is covered by BSA insurance policies.

ADULTS

Parents and guardians are always welcome to attend and participate in Troop activities.

Other adult attendees may be accommodated with approval from the Committee Chairman and Scoutmaster.  Please request approval at least one week prior to departing for the event.

YOUTH

Youth members of the Troop may participate in Troop activities as long as they meet pre-established participation requirements.

LIMITED EXCEPTIONS

Concurrent Participation

Families of Troop members may participate in similar activities concurrent with Troop events (e.g., biking on the Marine State Park bike trail or visiting a museum at the same time as the Troop).  These individuals are not participating as part of the Troop event and are not covered by BSA insurance coverage.

Adults who are solely responsible for non-registered youth cannot be adult leaders / participants in the Troop activity and do not count towards two-deep leadership / youth protection requirements.

Group Ticketing

Occasionally, the Troop will receive discounted group admission / tickets for an activity.  The Troop will extend those reduced admission / ticket prices to families of Troop members if permitted by the source organization.

If families take advantage of the discount, non-members are participating in the activity concurrently and ARE NOT considered to be a part of the Troop activity.

Family Events

Occasionally, the Troop may hold events opened to our members and their families (“Family Events”).

• BSA rules (e.g. Youth Protection, Buddy System, SAFE Swim rules) will be followed at Troop Family Events.
• However, Family Events are not considered official Scouting activities and are not covered by BSA insurance.
• Parents/guardians are responsible for the health and safety of their family members during these events.

Family events will be clearly designated in the description of the event in TroopTrack.

REFERENCE INFORMATION

• BSA Guide to Safe Scouting (Online | PDF – The online version is considered the definitive version)
  • Youth Protection and Adult Leadership
  • Camping
  • Youth Protection and Barriers to Abuse FAQs
• How do I apply to be an Adult leader?

The Annual Health Form is a complex document and there are many different fields that can go overlooked.  It is important that all fields are completed in order to comply with Scouting America’s policies (and be covered under our insurance). Our Leaders and the medial teams at camps we may attend will scrutinize the documentation submitted to ensure completeness.

Click here to read our article about common Health Form Issues.

While the Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA programs cover similar topic areas and work to teach Scouts to live by the Scout Oath and Law, there are a few key things differences your Scout will experience as soon as they join the Troop:

• Unit Structure: The first difference your Scout will experience is in how a Scouts BSA unit is organized. Instead of Dens and a Pack, Scouts is organized in Patrols and a Troop. Unlike Dens in Cub Scouts, Patrols may be made up of Scouts of different school grades.
• Leadership & Chain of Command: In Cub Scouts, Scouts are led by adults who plan and conduct meetings and activities. In Scouts BSA, the patrols and Troop are led by our youth leaders who are guided and mentored by the adult leaders. That means that Scouts who have a question or problem go to their youth leader who then escalates those questions up the youth chain of command before they get to the adults.
• Advancement: Cub Scouts work together over the year to complete Adventures and earn a Rank. You do not need to earn all of the Cub Scout Ranks to earn the Arrow of Light. In the Troop, Scouts work independently to complete Rank Requirements and earn Merit Badges. Scouts set their own pace to earn their ranks with the only time limit being that you must complete all the rank requirements from Scout to Eagle Scout by your 18th birthday.
• Learning Methods: In Scouts BSA, Scouts learn by doing and ultimately teaching a skill to others rather than being taught by others like in Cub Scouts.
• Camping & Activities: Finally, activities are different in the Troop versus the Pack. The troop meets weekly with at least one outdoor activity each month. Scouts BSA members are able to participate in longer, overnight events (like Summer Camp) and parents are not required (but are highly encouraged) to attend outdoor events with their Scouts.

This is just a brief list of differences. LEARN MORE.

You do not need to buy anything specifically for your Scout’s crossover. Everything else needed for the meeting will be provided by the Pack or the Troop.

We recommend that Scouts have the tan Scouts BSA shirt before their crossover.

Yes, you need a handbook.  The Scouts BSA handbook is a Scout’s official record of advancement and completion of requirements.

No, you do not need to buy one.  The Troop provides new members with their first handbook when they attend their first Troop meeting.  It is the Scout’s responsibility to replace the handbook if it is lost or severely damaged.

If you’re looking for a gift mark your Scout completing their time in Cub Scouts, you may want to consider:

• A Scouts BSA Handbook Cover (the standard cover is currently out of stock online, but limited quantities are available at the Butler and Pittsburgh Scout Shops.  You do NOT need to buy your Scout a Handbook as one will be provided to them when they attend their first Troop meeting after the crossover)
• A Merit Badge Sash
• Camping gear or a gift card to Public Lands or REI

Troop meetings are held every Tuesday at the following times:

• 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th (if needed) Tuesdays 7 – 8:30PM
• 3rd Tuesday 6 – 7PM for the PLC meeting with Parents meeting to follow 7 – 8PM

The Troop typically has one weekend activity per month.  The specific date/time and location of the event changes based on the activity.

The Troop will always send a TroopTrack meeting invitation for events that have a different time or location.

No.  Scouts are encouraged to attend the weekly meetings but it is not required.  Some Scouts miss meetings for months due to other commitments like sports or musical.

Missing meetings can make it more difficult for Scouts to complete advancement requirements as they may miss opportunities to learn and practice important skills and to demonstrate those skills and have rank requirements signed off.

Scouts can “make up” these opportunities during weekend Troop events or by scheduling time to meet with older Scouts or adult leaders outside of Troop meetings (as long as Youth Protection requirements are followed.)

Troop meetings are held every Tuesday at the following times:

• 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th (if needed) Tuesdays 7 – 8:30PM
• 3rd Tuesday 6 – 7PM for the PLC meeting with Parents meeting to follow 7 – 8PM

Meetings are held in the basement of English Lutheran Church (September through May) and the large pavilion in Zelienople Community Park (June through August).

The Troop will always send a TroopTrack meeting invitation for events that have a different time or location.

The third Tuesday of every month is our Troop’s Patrol Leaders Council (PLC). The PLC is the Scout’s opportunity to plan what to do in the upcoming months’ activities and assign responsibility to a Scout or Adult to help plan the activity. All Scouts in a Troop or Patrol Leadership position are required to attend, but all members are encouraged to attend to learn about the PLC process, provide input on upcoming activities, and stay up-to-date on Troop plans.

The Structure of the PLC Meeting

The PLC Meeting follows a standard agenda:

• Opening Flag Ceremony
• Review of meetings & events since the last PLC meeting: The Troop performs a “Stop, Start, Continue” review of the past month’s meetings and activities.  This review asks Scouts to consider:
  • Things that went well that we should CONTINUE doing from the event.
  • Things that would be beneficial for us to START doing at similar events.
  • Things we are currently doing that are not working and we should STOP doing at events.
• Patrol Leaders Report: During this portion of the meeting, the Patrol Leaders for each patrol present an update on his patrol’s activities.  This can include:
  • Progress toward ranks & requirements that the patrol needs to work on
  • Upcoming patrol events
  • Other updates on his patrol members
• Positions of Responsibilities Report: Similar to the Patrol Leaders report, each Scout holding a Troop position provides an update on their specific area of responsibility and brings any issues to the SPL / PLC’s attention.
• Upcoming event planning: Here is where the planning happens.  The Troop tries to plan events 2 – 3 months in advance.  During this section of the meeting, Scouts will review the specific plans for the upcoming month’s activities, brainstorm activities further out into the future, and assign planning responsibilities to a Scout or Patrol.
• Other business and Reminders and FYIs: During this section, the Troop discusses any additional information that needs to be covered as a Troop (e.g., providing the Scoutmaster input on how activities will be run, helping to design a Troop neckerchief)
• Closing benediction

The PLC meeting is one of the Scout’s opportunities to influence what we do as a Troop.

Reference Information

• View the latest PLC Meeting Agenda / Minutes

The Troop Committee hosts a Parents meeting every month on the third Tuesday, immediately following the PLC.  All parents / guardians are encouraged to attend.

During the Parent’s meeting, we review the Scouts’ plans for the upcoming month and discuss Troop operations (i.e., finances, upcoming events, and fundraisers).

This is a great way to keep apprised of what is going on in the Troop.

If you’re unable to attend the Parents Meeting, minutes will be made available on the Troop website and key highlights will be communicated via the monthly Troop Newsletter.

Courts of Honor are  gatherings for Scouts, families, and  guests where the troop and troop members are recognized for what’s been accomplished and achieved. They are presented in a manner appropriate for a special occasion and can feature a variety of impressive ceremonies.

Troop 457 tries to hold a Court of Honor once a quarter (typically on the month with a fifth Tuesday).  Family and friends are encourage to attend these events.  The Troop plans these events.

An Eagle Scout Court of Honor is a more rare and special event.  This Court of Honor is focused on the Scout who is receiving their Eagle Scout award and may include additional participants, recognition, and celebration on achieving this major accomplishment.  The new Eagle Scout and their family are actively involved in planning their own Court of Honor.

• Scouts should always be in uniform for Troop meetings or when departing for a Troop activity.  That typically means the following except when otherwise communicated in the TroopTrack meeting invitation:
  • Class A (Field) Uniforms when meeting at English Lutheran Church
  • Class B (Activity) Uniforms when meeting in Zelienople Park
• Your copy of the Scouts BSA Handbook
• Your Scout Binder
• Any supplies listed in the TroopTrack meeting invitation or appropriate for the event.
• Any gear needed for a Scoutmaster Conference of Board of Review (if applicable)

Scouts are highly encouraged to attend Summer Camp, but they are not required to do so.

Summer Camp is an excellent opportunity for Scouts to have fun, make new friends, and learn new skills. The Troop attends a week-long summer camp (typically the last week of June) at Scout camps throughout area.  The specific Scout camp we attend is selected by the Scouts during the Annual Planning Conference.

Attending Summer Camp is a valuable experience for several reasons:

• It provides Scouts with the opportunity to spend time in the outdoors and learn new skills such as camping, hiking, and fishing, which enable them to be more self-sufficient in the wilderness.
• It is an excellent way to make new friends and build strong relationships. Scouts from different troops come together to form new groups and participate in various activities, such as swimming, archery, and campfires. These activities encourage teamwork, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging.
• It provides Scouts with the opportunity to earn merit badges, which recognize their achievements and skills. Scouts can also work towards other awards such as the National Outdoor Award or the Mile Swim award.
• Scouts can complete rank requirements that are more difficult to complete during meetings due to the availability of locations or equipment.  Adult leaders are also more accessible to Scouts because they’re spending time at camp too.
• It is a fun and memorable experience that creates lifelong memories. Many Scouts look back on their summer camp experiences with fondness, recalling the new friends they made, the skills they learned, and the adventures they had.

Summer Camp registration typically begins in the late winter / early spring with an invitation from TroopTrack.  Additional instructions on how to sign up will be included in that message.

Coming Soon

The Troop requires youth have a completed permission slip (completed by the Scout’s parent or legal guardian) when attending any outdoor activity.  A blank version of the form can be downloaded from Scouting.org or a partially populated version (including your Scout’s name, address, and birthday as well as the Event name and adult coordinator) can also be downloaded from TroopTrack.

1. Go to: https://Troop457Zelie.trooptrack.com/plan/permission_slip
2. Select the event name from the Event dropdown and the Scout’s name from the Member dropdown.
3. Click Print to generate the partially populated form.
4. The Scout should sign and date the form in the spot marked “Participant Signature.”
5. A parent or guardian’s name, phone number and email address should be written in the appropriate spots
6. A parent or guardian must sign and date the form in the spot marked “Parent / Guardian Signature”
7. Review the rest of the form and complete any additional blank spots. Use the Scoutmaster’s name and contact information if it is not populated at the bottom of the form.

It is recommended that parents keep a copy of the form and contact the tour leader in the event of any questions or in case emergency contact is needed.

Of course, our goal in all of this is to make sure that parents are aware of the kind of activities their youth will be participating in. So thank you.

“Who can attend Troop activities” is probably one of the questions most frequently asked of our Adult Leaders.  The answer to that question is determined by the Guide to Safe Scouting, which establishes the official BSA rules and policies for Scouting activities.

The Troop must comply with these policies, not only for the safety and security of our Scouts, adult leaders, and event attendees; but also to ensure the event is covered by BSA insurance policies.

ADULTS

Parents and guardians are always welcome to attend and participate in Troop activities.

Other adult attendees may be accommodated with approval from the Committee Chairman and Scoutmaster.  Please request approval at least one week prior to departing for the event.

YOUTH

Youth members of the Troop may participate in Troop activities as long as they meet pre-established participation requirements.

LIMITED EXCEPTIONS

Concurrent Participation

Families of Troop members may participate in similar activities concurrent with Troop events (e.g., biking on the Marine State Park bike trail or visiting a museum at the same time as the Troop).  These individuals are not participating as part of the Troop event and are not covered by BSA insurance coverage.

Adults who are solely responsible for non-registered youth cannot be adult leaders / participants in the Troop activity and do not count towards two-deep leadership / youth protection requirements.

Group Ticketing

Occasionally, the Troop will receive discounted group admission / tickets for an activity.  The Troop will extend those reduced admission / ticket prices to families of Troop members if permitted by the source organization.

If families take advantage of the discount, non-members are participating in the activity concurrently and ARE NOT considered to be a part of the Troop activity.

Family Events

Occasionally, the Troop may hold events opened to our members and their families (“Family Events”).

• BSA rules (e.g. Youth Protection, Buddy System, SAFE Swim rules) will be followed at Troop Family Events.
• However, Family Events are not considered official Scouting activities and are not covered by BSA insurance.
• Parents/guardians are responsible for the health and safety of their family members during these events.

Family events will be clearly designated in the description of the event in TroopTrack.

REFERENCE INFORMATION

• BSA Guide to Safe Scouting (Online | PDF – The online version is considered the definitive version)
  • Youth Protection and Adult Leadership
  • Camping
  • Youth Protection and Barriers to Abuse FAQs
• How do I apply to be an Adult leader?

Troop 457 takes cues from Seneca Valley School District for determining weather-related cancellations, however a school cancellation does not mean our Troop meeting is cancelled. We will always try to offer our meetings virtually before we fully cancel the meeting (although this is not always feasible based on the planned activity).

Our leaders will evaluate the closure and current conditions to determine whether to move to a virtual meeting or cancel the meeting.  This information will be communicated via TroopTrack email (or text message for urgent cancellations) and on the Troop’s social media accounts.

You and your family’s safety is of the upmost importance.  DO NOT attend a meeting if your local conditions are unsafe.

STAY INFORMED

The Troop shares important information about weather-related cancellations using three key channels:

• TroopTrack Emails like this one
• TroopTrack Text Messages for time sensitive communications (INSTRUCTIONS: How to add your mobile number to TroopTrack.  Be sure to add “[email protected]” to your contact list to prevent the message from being sent to Spam.)
• The Troop’s Facebook and Instagram accounts

Troop 457 uses two different types of uniforms referred to as Class A and Class B uniforms.

Class A Uniform

Class A uniforms (also called the Field Uniform) are the button down shirts with all the patches that you typically associate with Scouting. It consists of the khaki button-down shirt, a neckerchief, neckerchief slide, merit badge sash, and patches identifying our Council, Troop and the ranks / awards your Scout has earned. The Class A uniform also includes optional pieces like a hat, belt, and pants.

The Class A uniform is the same for all Scouts BSA members and is defined by the BSA’s Guide to Awards and Insignia (Scouts BSA-specific Guide).

Scouts BSA Uniform Shirt (several styles and fabric types are available)	Scouts BSA Shoulder Loops
Scouts BSA Unit Numerals Three Patches: 4, 5, and 7	World Crest Scout Emblem

Class B Uniform

The Class B uniform (also called the Activity Uniform) is a Scouting t-shirt/sweatshirt (shows the fleur de li) and activity appropriate pants or shorts, and an optional scouting cap.  The Troop typically orders “Troop 457” shirts, sweatshirts and hats on an annual basis.

Coming Soon

Scouts should wear their neckerchief whenever wearing their Class A Uniform.  Neckerchiefs must be worn for all special events (Scoutmaster Conference, Boards of Review, and Courts of Honor).

No. The official Scouts BSA uniform pants / shorts are encouraged but not required.

Scouts should always wear pants / shorts that are neat, match the uniform, and are weather/activity appropriate.  Appropriate pants / shorts include:

• Jeans
• Khaki or Olive Green pants/shorts

The following are not appropriate pants / shorts when wearing the Class A uniform:

• Athletic shorts
• Sweatpants

The Troop provides Scouts with their handbook at the first meeting they attend after joining the Troop.  The Handbook provides important information about Scouting and the skills Scouts need to demonstrate to complete rank requirements.

The Scouts BSA handbook is also a Scout’s primary record keeping tool.  Rank requirements are physically signed off in the handbook and pages are also provided for Scouts to track service hours, hiking miles, and camping nights.

Scouts should bring their handbook to all Troop events and activities so completed advancement requirements, service hours, hiking miles, and camping nights can be signed off by authorized signers (more on this topic in the Advancement module)

Marking Your Handbook

Every Scout in the Troop and at Scouting events has a copy of the Scouts BSA handbook and they all look the same.  We recommend that you take some time as soon as you get a handbook to write your name in several places.

• One of the first pages in a Scouts BSA Handbook provides you a location to write your name and contact information.
• We also have Scouts use a permanent Sharpie marker to write their name on the head, fore edge, and tail (the sides) of your book so you can quickly identify it is yours.

Protecting Your Handbook

The Scouts BSA Handbook is the Scout’s advancement record.  Therefore, it is important to take care of it and protect it.  Make sure you have labeled your book, know where it is, don’t leave it in the rain or where it can be lost.

Consider purchasing a Handbook Cover or similar product to limit the Handbook’s exposure to the elements.

The Merit Badge sash is typically worn during special events like Scoutmaster Conference, Boards of Review, and Courts of Honor.  Scouts attending Summer Camp should also bring their sash with them to camp.

Class A uniforms (also called the Field Uniform) are the button down shirts with all the patches that you typically associate with Scouting. It consists of the khaki button-down shirt, a neckerchief, neckerchief slide, merit badge sash, and patches identifying our Council, Troop and the ranks / awards your Scout has earned. The Class A uniform also includes optional pieces like a hat, belt, and pants.

The Class A uniform is the same for all Scouts BSA members and is defined by the BSA’s Guide to Awards and Insignia (Scouts BSA-specific Guide).

Scouts BSA Uniform Shirt (several styles and fabric types are available)	Scouts BSA Shoulder Loops
Scouts BSA Unit Numerals Three Patches: 4, 5, and 7	World Crest Scout Emblem

The Class B uniform (also called the Activity Uniform) is a Scouting t-shirt/sweatshirt (shows the fleur de li) and activity appropriate pants or shorts, and an optional scouting cap.  Members can order their own Class B uniforms through Play 2 Wear in Cranberry Township at this link: https://troop-457.spiritsale.com/products.

Courts of Honor are  gatherings for Scouts, families, and  guests where the troop and troop members are recognized for what’s been accomplished and achieved. They are presented in a manner appropriate for a special occasion and can feature a variety of impressive ceremonies.

Troop 457 tries to hold a Court of Honor once a quarter (typically on the month with a fifth Tuesday).  Family and friends are encourage to attend these events.  The Troop plans these events.

An Eagle Scout Court of Honor is a more rare and special event.  This Court of Honor is focused on the Scout who is receiving their Eagle Scout award and may include additional participants, recognition, and celebration on achieving this major accomplishment.  The new Eagle Scout and their family are actively involved in planning their own Court of Honor.

On January 1, 2023 the BSA revised Scout and Star rank requirements (#6) as follows (edits in red):

With your parent or guardian, complete the exercises in the pamphlet How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide and earn the Cyber Chip Award for your grade or view the Personal Safety Awareness videos ( with your parent or Guardian’s permission)

There are two components of this requirement.

How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse: A Parents Guide

Parents and Scouts should read the Youth Protection pamphlet that is included at the front of your Scout’s Handbook. (An online version is available here.)

Discuss the questions at the end of the pamphlet and make sure everyone understands what the BSA’s policies are regarding youth protection.

Cyber Chip / Personal Safety Awareness videos

The BSA is phasing out the Cyber Chip program in favor of the Personal Safety Awareness videos so the Troop encourages our Scouts to watch these videos on Scouting.org.

The Troop typically spends one or two meetings each year for Scouts to watch the Personal Safety Awareness videos.  If a Scout misses one of those meetings, they can watch these videos on Scouting.org.

After Completing These Activities

Once a Scout has completed the pamphlet exercises and watched the Personal Safety Awareness videos, parents should email the Scoutmaster to inform him the Scout has completed the requirement.  At our next Troop meeting, the Scoutmaster or other leader may ask some quick questions to confirm understanding before approving the requirement.

In Scouts BSA, there is only one set time requirement for earning Ranks.  Any Scout wishing to become an Eagle Scout must complete all requirements (except the Eagle Scout Board of Review) by their 18th birthday.  All other ranks can be earned at the Scout’s own pace.

Keep in mind that several ranks have requirements that include a minimum amount of time to complete.  These include:

• Tenderfoot Requirements 6b and 6c (30 days)
• Second Class Requirement 7a (4 weeks)
• First Class Requirement 8a (4 weeks)
• Star Requirements 1 and 5 (4 months)
• Life Requirements 1 and 5 (6 months)
• Eagle Requirements 1 and 4 (6 months)

Many ranks also include requirements to participate in a specific number of Service Hours and Troop activities (including outdoor activities).  These could add to the time needed to complete each rank based on the Troop’s schedule and Scout’s participation in these activities.

Finally, required and non-required merit badges must be earned for the Star, Life, and Eagle ranks.  Some merit badges include requirements that must be completed for a specific period of time.  (For example, Personal Fitness includes a requirement to develop and follow a 12 week fitness program.  Family Life includes a requirement for the Scout to list home duties and chores and show that they have been completed over 90 days.)

Individual ranks must be earned sequentially (you must earn the Scout Rank before earning Tenderfoot, Tenderfoot before Second Class, etc.)  However requirements may be worked on concurrently unless otherwise stated by the requirements.

Scout, Tenderfoot, Second and First Class rank requirements can be worked on at the same time except for the Scoutmaster Conference and Board or Review requirements.  The Scoutmaster Conference and Board of Review requirements must be completed after earning the previous rank.  It is possible to have completed the non Scoutmaster Conference and Board of Review requirements for the Second and First Class ranks but be unable to earn the ranks if a Tenderfoot requirement has not yet been completed.

Rank requirements for Star, Life and Eagle Scout must be completed after earning the previous rank.  The exception to this rule are the merit badge requirements.  Scouts may begin working on merit badges as soon as they join Scouts BSA and merit badges are applied to the rank requirements regardless of when they were earned.

Per the BSA’s Guide to Advancement:

That means that Leaders and Merit Badge Counselors are not permitted to add to, modify, or remove from the approved list of merit badge or rank requirements as published by the BSA. Some limited exceptions are permitted for Scouts with special needs.

REMEMBER:  Advancement requirements must be passed as written. For example, if a requirement uses words like “show,” “demonstrate,” or “discuss,” then the leader / counselor should expect that the Scout show, demonstrate or discuss the requirement and would be appropriate if they rejected a completed worksheet as proof that the requirement had been completed.  (Guide to Advancement 4.2.0.1)

Scouts should immediately inform the Scoutmaster, Troop Committee, or Council representative if leader or Merit Badge counselor takes any action that conflicts with the Guide to Advancement.

Your Scout Handbook is the primary record of your advancement requirements.  The requirements are documented started on page 440.  There is space for leaders and other Scouts to initial and date showing you have successfully demonstrated completion of the requirement.

Adult leaders may also track completion of requirements in TroopTrack. This provides our leadership with a quick glance look at a Scout’s advancement requirements and helps to ensure focus is provided to help Scouts achieve their next rank.  Ideally, Adult Leaders will update TroopTrack at the same time as signing off on requirements in your Scout Handbook.  However, an adult leader may period ask to see your handbook in order to true up TroopTrack with your requirement completion.

Every Rank in Scouts BSA has a requirement that a Scout participate in a Scoutmaster Conference and, with the exception of the Scout Rank, a Board of Review.

Scoutmaster Conference

The Scoutmaster Conference is a meeting between the Scout and the Scoutmaster (or their delegate) that allows the Scoutmaster to review:

• a Scout’s growth in his understanding of Scouting’s ideals
• how the Scout applies these ideals in his daily life and in the troop
• the requirements of the Scout’s next rank so that he can be properly encouraged

The Scoutmaster Conference is not a retest of the Scout’s completion of the requirements, however the Scoutmaster may ask questions about the Scout  to ensure they have developed the skills needed for future ranks.

Board of Review

The purpose of a Board of Review is to determine the quality of the Scout’s experience and decide whether the requirements for the rank have been fulfilled. If so, the board not only approves the Scout’s advancement but also provides encouragement to continue the quest for the next rank.

Boards of Review are conducted by 3 to 6 committee members that are not the Scout’s parents, relatives, or guardians.  The Scoutmaster is permitted to attend as an observer but is not an active participant unless called upon.

Boards of Review should not become a retest or “examination” or a challenge of the Scout’s knowledge. In most cases it should, instead, be a celebration of accomplishment.

Requesting a Scoutmaster Conference or Board of Review

Scouts may request a Scoutmaster Conference or Board of Review at any time when they are confident the requirements for their rank have been achieved.  Adult leadership will do their best to accommodate requests in a timely fashion.

It is strongly encouraged that Scouts request a Scoutmaster Conference / Board of Review at least one week in advance since these meetings require multiple adults to participate.  This can be done in person at a Troop meeting or by submitting a form on the Troop website.

REMEMBER:

• Scouts should come to the Scoutmaster Conference and Board of Review prepared to demonstrate the skills they learned in the rank they are pursuing and any prior rank.  This includes bringing any supplies needed to demonstrate the skills.
• A Board of Review should be requested after Scout has completed the Scoutmaster Conference requirement.

At Troop 457, rank requirements may be signed off by:

• Any registered leader
• Any Scout who has earned at least 2 ranks higher than the rank in which the requirement is being signed off (i.e., a Scout rank requirement may be signed off by a Scout who holds at least the Second Class rank, Tenderfoot requirements may be signed off by a Scout with the First Class rank or higher)

Parents or guardians are involved at home encouraging, mentoring, and supporting, but they do not sign for rank advancement requirements unless they serve as registered leaders and have been designated by the unit leader to approve advancement.  (Guide to Advancement Section 4.2.0.0)

As a general rule of thumb, Troop 457 encourages Scouts to have rank requirements signed off by leaders who are not related to or guardians of the Scout.

On January 1, 2023 the BSA revised Scout and Star rank requirements (#6) as follows (edits in red):

With your parent or guardian, complete the exercises in the pamphlet How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide and earn the Cyber Chip Award for your grade or view the Personal Safety Awareness videos ( with your parent or Guardian’s permission)

There are two components of this requirement.

How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse: A Parents Guide

Parents and Scouts should read the Youth Protection pamphlet that is included at the front of your Scout’s Handbook. (An online version is available here.)

Discuss the questions at the end of the pamphlet and make sure everyone understands what the BSA’s policies are regarding youth protection.

Cyber Chip / Personal Safety Awareness videos

The BSA is phasing out the Cyber Chip program in favor of the Personal Safety Awareness videos so the Troop encourages our Scouts to watch these videos on Scouting.org.

The Troop typically spends one or two meetings each year for Scouts to watch the Personal Safety Awareness videos.  If a Scout misses one of those meetings, they can watch these videos on Scouting.org.

After Completing These Activities

Once a Scout has completed the pamphlet exercises and watched the Personal Safety Awareness videos, parents should email the Scoutmaster to inform him the Scout has completed the requirement.  At our next Troop meeting, the Scoutmaster or other leader may ask some quick questions to confirm understanding before approving the requirement.

Merit badges are awarded to Scouts who complete additional requirements related to a specific topic.  There are over 130 merit badges that cover many different topics from camping and first aid to robotics and game design.

The list of of all merit badges and their requirements can be found in the Scouts BSA Requirements book on Scouting.org.  This is the BSA’s official repository for the most current requirements and supersedes any requirements included in the published merit badge pamphlets.

If a new edition of a merit badge pamphlet is introduced with updated requirements after the Scouts BSA Requirements book has been released, a Scout who is starting the badge may choose to follow either set of requirements until the end of the year. At the start of the new year, Scouts who are beginning must use only the new requirements.

If a Scout has already started working on a merit badge when a new edition of the pamphlet is introduced, they may continue to use the same pamphlet and fulfill the requirements therein to earn the badge. They need not start over again with the new pamphlet and revised requirements.

As of July 2022, a Scout must earn at least 14 of the following 18 “required” merit badges in order to become an Eagle Scout:

1. First Aid
2. Citizenship in the Community
3. Citizenship in the Nation
4. Citizenship in the World
5. Citizenship in Society (new in July 2022)
6. Communication
7. Cooking
8. Personal Fitness
9. Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving
10. Environmental Science OR Sustainability
11. Personal Management
12. Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling
13. Camping
14. Family Life

In situations where there are multiple “required” merit badge options (i.e., 9, 10, 12 above), only one of the merit badges counts towards the 14 required merit badges.  Any of the other merit badges would then count towards the nine additional merit badges needed to become an Eagle Scout.  For example, if a Scout earns the Swimming, Hiking, and Cycling merit badges, one of those merit badges would count toward the 14 required merit badges and the other 2 would count towards the 9 other merit badges.

Merit Badge requirements may only be signed-off by a Merit Badge Counselor who has been registered with the Council for that Merit Badge.

Only adults of good character, age 18 or older, are approved to register as merit badge counselors. Merit badge counselors are expected to have the necessary skills and education to offer quality experiences in the badges they counsel. The intent is for Scouts to learn from those with an appropriate level of expertise.

It is important too, that potential counselors have a good rapport with unit leaders and Scout-age youth.

Instructions for registering as a Merit Badge Counselor can be found HERE.

Per the BSA’s Guide to Advancement:

That means that Leaders and Merit Badge Counselors are not permitted to add to, modify, or remove from the approved list of merit badge or rank requirements as published by the BSA. Some limited exceptions are permitted for Scouts with special needs.

REMEMBER:  Advancement requirements must be passed as written. For example, if a requirement uses words like “show,” “demonstrate,” or “discuss,” then the leader / counselor should expect that the Scout show, demonstrate or discuss the requirement and would be appropriate if they rejected a completed worksheet as proof that the requirement had been completed.  (Guide to Advancement 4.2.0.1)

Scouts should immediately inform the Scoutmaster, Troop Committee, or Council representative if leader or Merit Badge counselor takes any action that conflicts with the Guide to Advancement.

Before you start working on a merit badge, you should:

• Review the merit badge requirements
• Fill in a Blue Card
• Obtain Scoutmaster approval to work on the Merit Badge

The “Blue Card” is a two-sided, tri-section document that is formally known as The Application For Merit Badge.  It is an official Boy Scout of America document that serves as a record of progress toward completion of a merit badge.  The Blue Card is the first thing you need when you decide you would like to earn a merit badge.  Blue Cards will be available at every Troop meeting and Scouts are encouraged to keep a few extra blue cards in their Scout Handbook or notebook so they always have one available.

In the 2021 Guide to Advancement (section 7.0.0.2), Units are being encouraged to use other innovations such as Scoutbook or computer-generated spreadsheets to track advancement.  The Troop and Moraine Trails Council are expected to accept these alternative forms of documentation as long as the documentation provides the information necessary to track and record the Scout’s progress.

Blue Cards must be completed before the Scoutmaster signs the card authorizing the Scout to begin working on the merit badge.  You can find instructions for completing the blue card on THIS PAGE.

It is the responsibility of the Scout, and the Scout alone, to decide what merit badges he would like to earn.  However, the Scout must obtain Scoutmaster approval (documented on the Blue Card) before working with a counselor or attending a group or virtual merit badge opportunity.  This is the Scoutmaster’s opportunity to:

• give guidance on the wisdom of pursuing a selected badge,
• advise the Scout on how work might be approached and what may be encountered along the way.
• Provide the names and contact information for one or more approved counselors

It is also how the Troop’s Advancement Chair is made aware that the merit badge is being pursued.  Ultimately, it is the Scout’s decision whether or not to proceed with the merit badge even if a leader voices a concern.  (Guide to Advancement Section 7.0.0.3)

Scouts can meet with the Scoutmaster during any Troop meeting  to request approval.  Alternatively, Scouts may submit THIS FORM to request Scoutmaster approval (ideal when the Scout or Scoutmaster is not in attendance at a meeting or if the Scout choses to attend a merit badge class between meetings).  Submitting this form will automatically email the Scoutmaster and the Advancement Chair to inform them of the request.  The Scoutmaster will reply to the Scout and CC the Scout’s parents via TroopTrack email with additional information or approval.  The email approving the Scout to pursue the merit badge is considered the documented approval until the Scout can obtain the Scoutmaster’s signature at a future meeting.

Once you have completed the Blue Card and obtained the Scoutmaster’s approval, you are ready to start working on the merit badge.  The following are the recommended next steps:

1. Obtain a copy of the Merit Badge pamphlet and review it in detail.  You will find that most of the requirements are thoroughly explained in the contents of the pamphlet.
2. The Scout contacts the counselor while following youth protection requirements. >Even though Scouts may benefit from reviewing requirements with a merit badge counselor before getting to work, a Scout may begin the effort on any badge at any time after registering in Scouts BSA.
3. The counselor considers any work toward requirements completed prior to the initial discussion with the unit leader.  It is the counselor’s decision whether to accept work or activities completed prior to any meeting with the unit leader or the merit badge counselor. Common sense should prevail, however. For example: nights already camped as a Scout in Scouts BSA, or coins or stamps already collected, would count toward their respective badges.)
4. The Scout, the Scout’s buddy, and the counselor meet (often several times).
5. Partial progress is recorded as requirements are completed.
6. The Scout finishes the requirements.
7. The counselor approves completion.

Remember, advancement requirements must be passed as written. If, for example, a requirement uses words like “show,” “demonstrate,” or “discuss,” then that is what Scouts must do. Filling out a worksheet, for example, would not suffice.  (Guide to Advancement 4.2.0.1)

Resources:

• Troop Library (via TroopTrack):  A listing of the Merit Badge pamphlets in the Troop library and whether they are currently checked out.  See the Troop Librarian to checkout or return a Merit Badge Book.
• Merit Badge Pamphlets (via ScoutShop.org):  Scouts can also purchase physical and digital versions of the Merit Badge pamphlets from the BSA’s Scout Shop or at a local Scout Shop.
• Merit Badge Requirements and Workbooks (via usscouts.org):  The US Scouting Service Project has created a series of Merit Badge workbooks to help Scouts organize notes, listen actively, and document their work. These workbooks can help you but you still need to read the merit badge pamphlet. The work space provided for each requirement should be used by the Scout to make notes for discussing the item with his counselor, not for providing the full and complete answers. Each Scout must do each requirement. Completing these worksheets may suffice where a requirement calls for something in writing, but this would not work for a requirement where the Scout must discuss, tell, show, or demonstrate, etc. Scouts are NOT required to use these learning aids in order to complete a merit badge.

Upon completion of a merit badge, the merit badge counselor will remove the third of the card labeled COUNSELOR’S RECORD and retain it for their records.  The remaining two sections should be turned in to the Troop’s Advancement Chair or the Scoutmaster at the next Troop meeting.  The Advancement Chair will then process your merit badge application and you will be awarded your patch at the next suitable occasion.

At that time, the third of the Blue Card labeled APPLICANT’S RECORD will be returned to the Scout for their records.  Keep this card in a safe place and DO NOT throw it away.  This card is the record that you have successfully earned the merit badge.  Many Scouts keep the blue cards in baseball card pages in a binder.

The Order of the Arrow (OA) is Scouting’s national camping honor society. It recognizes Scouts and Adult Leaders who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives. This recognition provides encouragement for others to live these ideals as well.

Members of the Order of the Arrow are known for maintaining camping traditions and spirit, promoting year-round and long-term resident camping, and providing cheerful service to others. OA service, activities, adventures, and training for youth and adults are models of quality leadership development and programming that enrich and help to extend Scouting impact to youth.

Scouts are elected to the Order by their peers in the Troop during a special election in the Spring.  Our Troop’s OA Members are a part of the Kuskitannee Lodge.

Eligibility

To be eligible for election, a Scout must:

• Be a registered member of the Boy Scouts of America.
• Have experienced 15 nights of camping while registered with a troop, crew, or ship within the two years immediately prior to the election. The 15 nights must include one, but no more than one, long-term camp consisting of at least five consecutive nights of overnight camping, approved and under the auspices and standards of the Boy Scouts of America. Only five nights of the long-term camp may be credited toward the 15-night camping requirement; the balance of the camping (10 nights) must be overnight, weekend, or other short-term camps of, at most, three nights each. Ship nights may be counted as camping for Sea Scouts.
• At the time of their election, youth must be under the age of 21, hold the Scouts BSA First Class rank, the Venturing Discovery Award, or the Sea Scout Ordinary rank or higher, and following approval by the Scoutmaster, Crew Advisor or Sea Scout Skipper, be elected by the youth members of their unit.

Adults (age 21 or older) who meet the camping requirements may be selected following nomination to and approval by the lodge adult selection committee.

Reference Information

• The Order of the Arrow
• Kuskitannee Lodge 168

The BSA has many additional awards Scouts (and leaders) can earn while participating in the program.  Each of these awards has their own unique requirements, so we won’t cover them in the bootcamp. Scouts can earn additional awards such as:

• Recruiter Strip (for those who recruit a new Scout to the Troop)
• Religious Emblems for the Scout’s faith
• Achievements in Swimming, Hiking, Canoeing and more such as “50-miler award” or the mile swim
• Completion of additional Training such as Boardsailing, Lifeguard, or Standup Paddle Boarding.
• Environmental recognition (i.e. EPA Award, Distinguished Conservation Service award)
• And more

A full list of awards and requirements is available on Scouting.org.

Scouts who are interested in earning one of these awards should discuss their goals and objectives with the Scoutmaster who will guide them through the process of earning the award.

There are three core leadership positions filled by Scouts in the Troop:

• Senior Patrol Leader (“SPL”) – The SPL is the highest youth leadership position in the Troop.  The Scout in this role is the primary link between the Scouts and the Troop’s adult leaders.  He is responsible for leading meetings, events, activities, and the Patrol Leaders’ Council.
• Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (“ASPL”) – The ASPL is the second highest youth leadership position in the Troop and works closely with the SPL.  The Scout in this role acts as the SPL in his absence and provides leadership to other youth leaders in the Troop.
• Patrol Leader (“PL”) / Assistant Patrol Leader – The Patrol Leader leads his individual patrol’s meetings and activities and represents the patrol in the Patrol Leaders’ Council.  He is assisted by the Assistant Patrol Leader.

These leaders are supported by additional leadership positions.

• Quartermaster – Troop’s supply boss who keeps an inventory of Troop equipment and making sure it is all in good condition.
• Scribe / Webmaster – The Troop’s secretary who takes attendance, records discussions at the Patrol Leader’s Council meetings, and updating information in TroopTrack.
• Chaplain Aide – Serves the religious needs of the Troop including leading the closing prayer and mealtime blessings.
• Librarian – Maintains the Troop’s library of merit badge pamphlets and other literature and tracking who has borrowed them.
• Troop Guide – Helps to lead and mentor new Scouts when they join the Troop.
• Den Chief – Helps assist Den Leaders from our Cub Scout Pack and encourages Cub Scouts to continue in the Troop after crossing over.
• Historian – Collects and preserves Troop photographs, news stories, and other memorabilia.
• Instructor – An older Scout who helps teach skills to others.
• Bugler – A Scout who plays a bugle or similar instrument to mark key moments in troop meetings and activities.
• Order of the Arrow Representative – Act as a communication link and membership promotor between the Troop and our local Order of the Arrow lodge.
• Outdoor Ethics Guide – Promotes following the Leave No Trace and Tread Lightly! Principles and helps the Troop to enact these principles at Troop activities and events.
• Junior Assistant Scoutmaster – An older Scout with outstanding leadership skills that acts as an Assistant Scoutmaster.

The Troop’s Scout leaders meet monthly during the Patrol Leaders’ Council (“PLC”) meeting.  The PLC is made up of the Senior Patrol Leader, who presides over the meetings; the Assistant Senior Patrol Leaders, all Patrol Leaders, and any Troop Guides. The PLC also plans the yearly Troop program at the annual Troop program planning conference. It then meets monthly to fine-tune the plans for the upcoming month.  Troop 457’s PLC meeting takes place at 6PM on the third-Tuesday of the month.

Scout leadership positions are an important part of the youth-led Troop.  In fact, Scouts must hold a Troop leadership position in order to complete requirements for the Star, Life, and Eagle Scout ranks.

In Troop 457, all youth positions except for Junior Assistant Scoutmaster and Den Chief are elected by the Troop’s youth members for a six month term during elections in April/May and October/November.  The Junior Assistant Scoutmaster and Den Chief positions are appointed by the Scoutmaster for the same six month term.

See also: Troop Election Process

While the Scouts BSA program places additional responsibility on the youth to plan and coordinate events, there are still several easy ways that parents, guardians, family members, and family friends can be involved in the Scouting program.This includes:

• Just helping out
• Becoming a Merit Badge Counselor
• Becoming an Adult Leader within the Troop

Individuals who wish to serve as a registered adult leader in the Boy Scouts of America are REQUIRED to complete the following:

1. A BSA Adult Volunteer Application
2. The BSA’s Youth Protection Training
3. Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Check
4. PA Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance
5. EITHER:

• • A fingerprint-based FBI clearance if you have NOT lived in Pennsylvania for the last 10 years, OR
  • PA Disclosure Statement if you have been a PA resident for 10 or more years.

Specific instructions on how to complete these required items can be accessed by clicking on each link.

SUBMITTING DOCUMENTS

Documents can be submitted to the Scoutmaster or Committee Chair using the Service Portal 🔒 (preferred) or in hard copy.  They will obtain the necessary signatures from our Charter Organization and turn in the paperwork to the Council office.

The following steps are required for all adults who wish to become a Merit Badge Counselor:

• Identify the Merit Badges you would like to be a counselor for.  The latest list of merit badges and their requirements can be found in the Advancement and Awards section of Scouting.org.
• Complete a BSA Adult Leader Application, BSA Youth Protection Training, and obtain all necessary clearances (see How Do I Apply to be an Adult Leader?)
  • Use Position Code 42 (Merit Badge Counselor)
  • There is no cost associated with being a registered merit badge counselor.
• Complete the BSA Merit Badge Counselor Information Form.
  • Complete all of the required fields (indicated by an asterisk)
  • In the table, list the merit badges you would like to be a counselor for in the left most column.  In the second column, enter “A” to indicate you would like to add the merit badge.  In the third column provide a reason why you are qualified to be a counselor for the merit badge.
  • Under “I agree to work with:”, select
    • All Scouts if you are willing to be contacted by Scouts outside of Troop 457 as a counselor.
    • Only with Scouts in these units if you should like to only counsel scouts from Troop 457 (be sure to list Troop 457 in the space provided)
  • UPDATE March 2023 – Moraine Trails Council NO LONGER limits individuals to counsel no more than 8 merit badges.
  • The following merit badges have special qualifications or certifications requirements for the counselor or supervisor of the activities.  Include documentation showing you have current required certifications to expedite your acceptance as a counselor.  (Consult the BSA Guide to Advancement section 7.0.1.1 for specific guidance):
    • Climbing
    • Snow Sports
    • Canoeing
    • Kayaking
    • Lifesaving
    • Motor Boating
    • Rowing
    • Scuba Diving
    • Small Boat Sailing
    • Swimming
    • Water Sports
    • Whitewater
    • Archery
    • Rifle Shooting
    • Shotgun Shooting
• The completed BSA Application forms, certificate of completion for Youth Protection Training, documentation of required clearances, and the completed Merit Badge Counselor Information form can be provided to an Adult Leader or directly to Moraine Trails Council.

Additional Resources

• Step by step: How to be a merit badge counselor (from Bryan on Scouting)
• BSA Guide to Merit Badge Counseling
• Merit Badge Counselor Training on my.Scouting.org (requires my.Scouting account)
• BSA Guide to Advancement (establishes the specific rules for how advancement, including merit badges, works in BSA programs)
• BSA Guide to Safe Scouting (Provides additional guidance on BSA requirements for keeping Scouts safe during activities, including working on merit badges)

• Download the BSA Adult Volunteer Application
• The file is a fillable PDF.  We recommend typing your responses directly into the PDF before you submit it.
  • On Page 3: Complete all fields ABOVE the line marked “To be completed by Unit”
  • On Page 6: Complete the Authorization section in the middle of the page.
• Print the document and sign and date pages 3 (Signature of Applicant) and 6 (bottom of the page)

The Boy Scouts of America places the greatest importance on creating the most secure environment possible for our youth members. To maintain such an environment, the BSA developed numerous procedural and leadership selection policies and provides parents and leaders with resources for the Cub Scout, Scouts BSA, Venturing and Exploring programs.

• CLICK HERE learn more about the Boy Scouts of America’s Youth Protection policies.
• Visit My.Scouting  and create an account.  Once you have an account you can access online training.
• Take the BSA Youth Protection training.
• Once you have completed the training, please print out the certificate and include the print out with your application.
• CLICK HERE to learn about the training you must complete if you are a registered adult member of Scouting.

1. Go to https://epatch.state.pa.us
2. Click on “New Record Check (Volunteer)”
3. Check box and click Accept.
4. Fill in all information required.
5. Once your request has finished processing, do one of the following:

• • If message received is “NO RECORD FOUND”, print the Record Check Request Results page clearly showing your Control # and “No Record.”
  • If a criminal record IS found, submit the report detailing the criminal record found (which will be mailed to you) to the BSA Scout Executive.

If you have questions, please call: Toll Free at 1-888-783-7972, or (717) 783-9973.

1. Go to https://www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis/public/home
2. Select “Create Individual Account” to begin the process.
3. Once on the application page, select “Volunteer” as the Application Purpose.
4. For questions relating to the PA Child Abuse History Clearance, contact the ChildLine Verification Unit at 1-877-343-0494, or (717) 783-6211.

Results may take several weeks to be returned.

1. Go to https://uenroll.identogo.com
2. Enter Service Code 1KG6ZJ
3. “Select the State” = Pennsylvania
4. “Choose your agency” = DHS-OCYF
5. “Reason for Fingerprinting” = DHS-Volunteer
6. Follow all instructions necessary to complete the application and fingerprinting process.

A fee may apply to fingerprint-based clearances.  Save a copy of your receipt and the Troop will reimburse you for this cost.

1. Download the PA Disclosure Statement form.
2. Write your name and sign on the line marked “Name” on page 2.
3. Have a second adult write in their name and sign the document on the line marked “Witness.”
4. Date the document.

Our Troop uses an online application called TroopTrack to manage all aspects of our Troop including events, communications, advancement, and more.  (For those joining from Pack 457, TroopTrack is similar to Scoutbook with additional functionality and ease of use.)

Your TroopTrack account credentials are also used to access restricted sections of the Troop457Zelie.org website.

When you join Troop 457, we will setup two different types of TroopTrack accounts for you:

• A Scout Account
• One or more Adult Accounts

Scout and Adult accounts are joined to one another to form a household.  Both types of accounts have the ability to:

• View and update advancement, including ranks and merit badges
• View and update contact information for the Troop roster
• View parent and leader contact information
• View account balances
• View the Troop calendar of events and RSVP to event

Additional permissions may be added to accounts if the individual has a leadership role within the Troop.

The primary difference between these accounts is the level of access.  Scout accounts can only view and edit their own information while parent accounts can view and edit information for any member of their household.

Requesting Additional Adult Accounts or Adding a Scout Email Address

Complete the TroopTrack Account Request form on this website to request the addition/removal of an adult account or to associate an email account with a Scout account.  Note the following:

• You are required to login to the Troop website to access the form.  Use the TroopTrack username and password from the Initial Account Setup lesson.
• Email addresses added to TroopTrack must be able to receive emails from external addressed.  (Do NOT use a Seneca Valley School District student account as that email system does not receive emails from external sources.)
• Requests will be confirmed with adult members of the household before being processed.
• Requests could take up to a week to process.

Reference Information

• TroopTrack
• TroopTrack Account Request form
• Initial Account Setup lesson

A TroopTrack account is created for every youth member of our Troop.  This allows us to track each Scout’s achievements (rank advancement, merit badges, other awards), participation, leadership,  medical information, and money accounts.  Scouts can also use TroopTrack to communicate with one another and leaders (with built in youth protection controls).

Scout accounts are not initially associated with an email account so they cannot login to TroopTrack directly or receive Troop emails.

As a youth led organization, Scouts should get in the habit of reading all troop communications directly.  We encourage parents to provide the Troop with an email address for their Scout different from a parent’s email address.

A great way to make sure you never miss a Troop event is to add the Troop calendar to your calendar application of choice.  Some calendar applications even allow you to overlay your personal calendar with the TroopTrack calendar.  To do this, you first need the Troop’s ICS URL:

• Navigate to the Calendar in TroopTrack
• Scroll down to the bottom of the calendar.  There you will find the ICS URL.  Click the Copy button to copy that URL to your clipboard.

Now you just need to subscribe to that calendar in your calendar application of choice.  Below are links to instructions on how to add an internet calendar to the most popular calendaring applications.  Instructions for other applications can be found in their help files.

• Outlook Instructions
• Apple Calendar Instructions (MacOS, iOS / iPadOS)
• Android OS Calendar Instructions
• Google Calendar Instructions

Effectively planning events and some Troop meetings is a challenging task that can be made even more difficult if we don’t have an accurate headcount of attendees for the event.  That is why it is extremely important for our members to RSVP for events in advance.

RSVP Deadlines

• Events requiring an RSVP will include an RSVP deadline.
• The Troop will send several email reminders within several weeks in advance of the RSVP deadline.
• We cannot guarantee that RSVP changes can be accommodated after the stated deadline.  This is especially true when the Troop must make per-person reservations in advance.
• We encourage our members to RSVP early for events so we have an indication on your intention as soon as possible.  You can always change your RSVP before the deadline.
• In TroopTrack, you have the ability to state you are Going or Not Going to the event.  Any individuals who do not reply as of the stated deadline will be assumed to be Not Going.

RSVPs for Troop Meetings

RSVPs are not required for weekly Troop meetings UNLESS a headcount is needed in advance.  You will only receive an email reminder for weekly Troop meetings if an RSVP is required or the meeting date, time, or location is different than standard.

How to RSVP in TroopTrack

Most Troop Events will require you RSVP in TroopTrack.  To do this:

1. Navigate to the event details via the calendar or by clicking the View Event Details button or the Going / Not Going links in the TroopTrack email.
2. On the event details screen, you will find the RSVP card on the top right portion of the page.  This card shows you all individuals for whom you can RSVP as well as their RSVP status (“Coming?” column), the number of youth and adult guest attending, and the fees associated with the RSVP.
3. To RSVP, click on the RSVP button.  This will popup a screen where you can:
   • Respond that you are Going or Not Going to the event.
   • Add additional youth or adult guests to your RSVP (if permitted).  Only add guests if you are RSVPing for someone in your household not listed in the RSVP card.
   • Add an RSVP comment.
     • If you are RSVPing for guests, include their names in your RSVP note.
     • Check the Event Description to see if any additional information should be included in the RSVP note.

   Do not ask questions in the RSVP note field as these may not be checked in a timely manner.  Contact a Troop leader if you have questions about the event.

   Click on the Save button to save your RSVP and repeat this process for any additional members of your household who will be attending the event.

   Other RSVP Options

   In some cases, the Troop will utilize an online form to gather additional information for RSVPs.  For example, the Troop planned a ski trip in January 2023 where we needed to know who needed to rent skis and take lessons.  To simplify the RSVP process, we used a form here on the Troop website to gather RSVPs rather than TroopTrack.

   When we are not using TroopTrack to track RSVPs for an event, you will see a card stating:

   Outside RSVPs
   See Event description for information about RSVP’ing

   As stated, the instruction on how to RSVP are then provided in the Description card.

The Troop can send text messages from TroopTrack to alert you to urgent updates or important reminders (i.e., late changes to meetings, when we expect to return to ELC after a campout). To receive these messages, you must add your mobile number to your TroopTrack profile:

1. Login to TroopTrack.com
2. Click on the Profile link next to your name (left hand column)
   
3. In your profile, click on the Edit button in the top right of the Contact Info card (center column)
   
4. Enter your mobile number into the Cell phone field and select the name of your carrier in the Cell carrier field.
   
5. Click the Save button.

The Troop will only use Text Messaging for urgent, time-sensitive communications.

The Troop requires youth have a completed permission slip (completed by the Scout’s parent or legal guardian) when attending any outdoor activity.  A blank version of the form can be downloaded from Scouting.org or a partially populated version (including your Scout’s name, address, and birthday as well as the Event name and adult coordinator) can also be downloaded from TroopTrack.

1. Go to: https://Troop457Zelie.trooptrack.com/plan/permission_slip
2. Select the event name from the Event dropdown and the Scout’s name from the Member dropdown.
3. Click Print to generate the partially populated form.
4. The Scout should sign and date the form in the spot marked “Participant Signature.”
5. A parent or guardian’s name, phone number and email address should be written in the appropriate spots
6. A parent or guardian must sign and date the form in the spot marked “Parent / Guardian Signature”
7. Review the rest of the form and complete any additional blank spots. Use the Scoutmaster’s name and contact information if it is not populated at the bottom of the form.

It is recommended that parents keep a copy of the form and contact the tour leader in the event of any questions or in case emergency contact is needed.

Of course, our goal in all of this is to make sure that parents are aware of the kind of activities their youth will be participating in. So thank you.

The BSA Guide to Safe Scouting requires that drivers transporting Scouts to and from events have a valid driver’s license that has not been suspended or revoked, including a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) when required. Additionally, some Troop events (i.e. visiting military installations) may require adults to provide their drivers license information to comply with security rules.

Adult’s drivers license information can be tracked in TroopTrack to ensure that the information is available when needed.  All adult members (both registered leaders and parents/guardians) are encouraged to add this information to their profile by doing the following:

1. Login to your TroopTrack Dashboard
2. Access the profile of the individual you wish to add drivers license information.  (Adults who are not registered leaders have access to update the profiles of other members of their household.)  You can access a profile by:
   • Clicking on the Profile link next to your name in the Profile card on your dashboard.
   • Clicking on your Name in the tan bar at the top of any page and selecting My Profile in the dropdown.
   • Searching for the adult’s name in the Power Search field at the top of any page.
3. Once on the adult’s profile page, you will see a card titled Driver Info.  Click on the card’s Edit link to add or update your Drivers License information.
4. On the Screen, you will be prompted to enter your Drivers License State and Drivers License Number.
5. Click the Save button to add this information to your TroopTrack profile.

The Troop relies on our parents and guardians to help transport Scouts to and from Troop events using their personal vehicles.

The BSA Guide to Safe Scouting requires that “all vehicles transporting Scouts to or from Troop events be covered by automobile liability insurance with limits that meet or exceed the requirements of the state in which the vehicle is licensed. It is recommended, however, that coverage limits are at least $100,000 combined single limit. Any vehicle designed to carry ten or more passengers should have limit of $1,000,000.” (For insurance information refer to the Insurance section in the Guide to Safe Scouting.)

Parents/Guardians are asked to add information about their vehicles and their insurance coverage to their TroopTrack profiles.  This helps our leaders’ plan for the Troop’s transportation needs and ensures vehicles have the required insurance coverage to comply with the Guide to Safe Scouting.

This information can be added to your profile by:

1. Login to your TroopTrack Dashboard
2. Access the profile of the individual you wish to add drivers license information.  (Adults who are not registered leaders have access to update the profiles of other members of their household.)  You can access a profile by:
   • Clicking on the Profile link next to your name in the Profile card on your dashboard.
   • Clicking on your Name in the tan bar at the top of any page and selecting My Profile in the dropdown.
   • Searching for the adult’s name in the Power Search field at the top of any page.
3. Once on the adult’s profile page, you will see a series of tabs below your name:
4. Select the Vehicles tab.  (You may need to scroll to find this tab.)
5. To add a new vehicle, click the New Vehicle link in the light tan bar at the top of the page.
6. This will open the Vehicle Details where you will enter information about the vehicle’s make, model, license plate and safety information.  You are also asked to provide insurance information to ensure the Troop is in compliance with the Guide to Safe Scouting and to ensure adequate coverage is in place in the event of an accident.
7. Click the Save button to save the vehicle to your profile.

The official record of a Scout’s advancement is their Handbook (see Scouts BSA Rank Requirements section starting on page 440). However, this type of reporting does not provide our leaders with an overview of all our Scout’s advancement for planning purposes.  That’s why we encourage periodically updating a Scout’s advancement record in TroopTrack.

Who should update TroopTrack?

Periodically, one of our Scout leaders (youth or adult) will ask to review a Scout’s handbook and update TroopTrack to reflect their advancement progress.  This can also be done by the Scout or an adult member of their household.

We encourage updating a Scout’s TroopTrack records at least monthly before the PLC meeting.

How to update TroopTrack

There are two ways to update a Scout’s advancement information in TroopTrack.  Option A is the easiest to perform.

OPTION A: Record Progress

1. Login to TroopTrack and navigate to the dashboard.
2. Locate the Youth Summary card (when logged in as a Scout) or the Household card (when logged in as an Adult)
3. Click the Record Progress link next to the name of the Scout whose records you wish to update.
4. You will be presented with a list of Ranks and Merit Badges (previously completed advancement will be marked as Completed).  Locate and click on the Rank / Merit Badge for which you wish to record progress.
5. You will then be shown the list of requirements on the right side of the page with spaces to track when the requirement was Completed On and any relevant Notes.  Add the date from your Handbook into the Completed On field and (optional) the name of the individual signing off the requirement.
6. Click the Save button at the bottom of the page to submit the progress for approval.

The Completed On field at the top of the page (before the requirements) should not be populated by Scouts or their parents.

OPTION B: Update Achievements

1. Login to TroopTrack and navigate to the Scout’s profile.
2. Click on the Achievements tab.
3. Click on the sub-tab representing the advancement the Scout is working on (i.e. Ranks, Merit Badges, Other)
4. Click the Actions button next to the achievement you’d like to update.  (If the Scout is working on a Merit Badge that does not appear in the list, contact the Scoutmaster to confirm they are authorized to start working on the badge and to update the Scout’s TroopTrack records.)
5. Locate the requirement(s) that the Scout has completed and enter the date the requirement was completed in the Completion Date field for that requirement.

The overall Completed, Awarded, and Reported to Council On and Recognized / Purchased fields should not be completed by anyone other than a registered adult leader or the Advancement Coordinator.

Scouts and members of their household may enter Completed on dates into TroopTrack but these records must be approved by an authorized adult leader before they are considered officially complete.

“Who can attend Troop activities” is probably one of the questions most frequently asked of our Adult Leaders.  The answer to that question is determined by the Guide to Safe Scouting, which establishes the official BSA rules and policies for Scouting activities.

The Troop must comply with these policies, not only for the safety and security of our Scouts, adult leaders, and event attendees; but also to ensure the event is covered by BSA insurance policies.

ADULTS

Parents and guardians are always welcome to attend and participate in Troop activities.

Other adult attendees may be accommodated with approval from the Committee Chairman and Scoutmaster.  Please request approval at least one week prior to departing for the event.

YOUTH

Youth members of the Troop may participate in Troop activities as long as they meet pre-established participation requirements.

LIMITED EXCEPTIONS

Concurrent Participation

Families of Troop members may participate in similar activities concurrent with Troop events (e.g., biking on the Marine State Park bike trail or visiting a museum at the same time as the Troop).  These individuals are not participating as part of the Troop event and are not covered by BSA insurance coverage.

Adults who are solely responsible for non-registered youth cannot be adult leaders / participants in the Troop activity and do not count towards two-deep leadership / youth protection requirements.

Group Ticketing

Occasionally, the Troop will receive discounted group admission / tickets for an activity.  The Troop will extend those reduced admission / ticket prices to families of Troop members if permitted by the source organization.

If families take advantage of the discount, non-members are participating in the activity concurrently and ARE NOT considered to be a part of the Troop activity.

Family Events

Occasionally, the Troop may hold events opened to our members and their families (“Family Events”).

• BSA rules (e.g. Youth Protection, Buddy System, SAFE Swim rules) will be followed at Troop Family Events.
• However, Family Events are not considered official Scouting activities and are not covered by BSA insurance.
• Parents/guardians are responsible for the health and safety of their family members during these events.

Family events will be clearly designated in the description of the event in TroopTrack.

REFERENCE INFORMATION

• BSA Guide to Safe Scouting (Online | PDF – The online version is considered the definitive version)
  • Youth Protection and Adult Leadership
  • Camping
  • Youth Protection and Barriers to Abuse FAQs
• How do I apply to be an Adult leader?

Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat guidelines tailor activities to swimming ability. The BSA requires that adults and youth participating in aquatic activities to undergo a Swim Test to evaluate their swimming skills and determine what activities are appropriate.

Swim Classifications

The BSA Swim Test is administered by an Aquatics Instructor, BSA; BSA Lifeguard; BSA Swimming & Water Rescue; or other lifeguard, swimming instructor, etc.  Participants start the swim test and are classified based on their ability to complete the following requirements:

• SWIMMER’S TEST:
  • Jump feet first into water over the head in depth, level off, and begin swimming.
  • Swim 75yards in a strong manner using one or more of the following strokes: side stroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or crawl;
  • then swim 25 yards using an easy resting back stroke.
  • The 100 yards must be swum continuously and include at least one sharp turn.
  • After completing the swim, rest by floating.
• BEGINNER’S TEST:
  • Jump feet first into water over the head in depth, level off,
  • swim 25 feet on the surface,stop, turn sharply, resume swimming as before, and return to starting place.
• NON SWIMMER: Anyone who has not completed the beginner or swimmer tests is classified as a nonswimmer.

Participants must recertify annually.  The Troop typically organizes a swim test in the Spring and June for Scouts to complete the Swim Test requirements prior to Summer Camp.  Scouts who do not complete the test before arriving at camp can complete it at camp.

Yes, the requirements state that the swimmer may wear swim goggles to avoid eye irritation.

Yes, the swimmer may use side stroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or crawl (freestyle).

No, the doggy-paddle is not considered a strong forward stroke.

No, the swimmer cannot touch the bottom or grab the side of the pool to stop. This ends the assessment. If the swimmer stops after 25 yards of swimming they will be assessed as a beginner. If the swimmer stops before 25 years they will be assessed as a non-swimmer.

No, there is no time to complete the test. It is good practice to slow down when you take the test so that you are not exhausted at the end.

No. The requirements specify that the swimmer should use an easy resting backstroke for the last 25 yards. The reason for this is to make the scout demonstrate that they can relax and recover in the water if they get exhausted. Most lifeguards will pass a swimmer even if they use a competition-style backstroke, but it is good practice to use the correct stroke at the end.

There is no specific time requirement; this is up to the individual lifeguard or swim director. Older versions of this test specified that the swimmer should float for one minute, but this is not specified now. The swimmer must float long enough to demonstrate that they can continue to float and rest if needed.

This is up to the individual lifeguard or swim director. If you have a medical need to wear earplugs (example: you have drainage tubes in your eardrums), please let your leaders know so that we can advocate for your needs. Earplugs should never be worn if you are snorkeling or swimming underwater because the water pressure can push the earplugs into your ears and cause further problems.

Yes, the swim test must be renewed annually.

No. You can still participate in most scouting activities if you are classified as a non-swimmer. You can even go into the non-swimmer section of the pool or lake to splash and cool off. However, the swim test is required for advancement (beginner for second class, swimmer for first class) and it is required for most camp-honors programs.

Yes. Keep in mind that this will create more drag and make swimming harder, but this is allowed.

Yes, you can take the test as many times as you need. Keep in mind that lifeguards will not always be available to administer the test again, but you can take the test as many times as you need.