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Posted by: admin on 06/21/2010 12:43 PM
Updated by: admin on 06/21/2010 12:45 PM
Expires: 01/01/2015 12:00 AM
Summer Camp Advancement
Dear Parents,
One of the main goals of our troop leadership at summer camp is to see each scout advance at least one rank, by attaining a number of requirements that he needs to master in order to advance to the next level. Although these are spelled out quite clearly in the Boy Scout handbook (which we expect each and every scout to bring with them to summer camp), we have simplified the process somewhat. Each scout who attends the June scout meetings will be given the benefit of a counseling session with our advancement coordinator, Mr. O’Connor. Your son’s advancement records will be reviewed with him, and he will be encouraged to set challenging, yet realistic goals to achieve. In this way, he knows precisely what it will take for him to achieve and advance to the next rank... (Click "Read More" for the full letter form Mr. Atlas).
Dear Parents,
One of the main goals of our troop leadership at summer camp is to see each scout advance at least one rank, by attaining a number of requirements that he needs to master in order to advance to the next level. Although these are spelled out quite clearly in the Boy Scout handbook (which we expect each and every scout to bring with them to summer camp), we have simplified the process somewhat. Each scout who attends the June scout meetings will be given the benefit of a counseling session with our advancement coordinator, Mr. O’Connor. Your son’s advancement records will be reviewed with him, and he will be encouraged to set challenging, yet realistic goals to achieve. In this way, he knows precisely what it will take for him to achieve and advance to the next rank. These goals will not be attained unless the scout is self-motivated to work toward them. The leadership does not hand-hold each scout through the process on the Boy Scout level, rather encourages him to seek out the learning opportunities necessary to master each skill. Much of this learning takes place through his attendance at meetings and monthly camping trips, but summer camp presents unique opportunities that are not necessarily available throughout the year.
Keep in mind that we do not encourage 1st-year scouts to attempt merit badges, as they are three ranks away from needing to earn them and should concentrate on learning basic scout skills as outlined in the handbook and taught at summer camp through the New Frontiers Program. Much of the merit badge subject content is far too advanced for new scouts, and they may very well become discouraged and be turned off in the process. We ask for your help and understanding in providing some of the encouragement necessary to start your son out on the right foot on the trail to Eagle Scout!
As parents, however, let us not obsess over quantity, mainly with our younger ones. If they are pushed to believe that more and faster is better, they may be too pressured. In such cases, they neither enjoy the new experiences they are having in scouting, nor learn the skills well enough to retain them. The advancement program in scouting is not meant to be a competition to see who’s son can beat or keep pace with the next person’s son. Our scouts don’t need or want that kind of pressure. They will advance at the pace that’s best for them individually, and in keeping with the development of their emotional maturity. The only competition the scout leadership promotes is that which is team-oriented between patrols, NOT the advancement of individual scouts. Our priority is quality over quantity, as well as maintaining the integrity of the advancement process and that of the rank of Eagle. We ask that parents consider that when guiding their scout sons.
All advancement accomplishments will be recognized at a Parent’s Night and Court of Honor at the end of September. Boards of Review will be conducted at camp only as time and availability of committee members allow. Most Boards of Review will be conducted in September prior to the Court of Honor night.
Yours in Scouting,
John Atlas
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