We Own Adventure

Scouting News for the DC Metro Area

Advancement

Maryland Teen Joins First Female Inaugural Class of Eagles

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On October 28th 2020, BSA Troop 1268 of New Market, MD celebrated its first female Eagle Scout. Ashlyn Cooper of New Market, MD became one of the first class of female Eagle Scouts in the country after successfully completing her Eagle Scout board of review. She joined BSA the very first day that BSA opened up their Scouting program to female youth in February 2019 and completed her Eagle rank work in Sept 2020. She has embraced the program with 100% passion, having logged 48 camping nights, 160 miles of hiking, 200 service hours, 39 merit badges, 5 summer camps, serving as the troop’s first Senior Patrol Leader, attending and then joining staff for the BSA’s National Youth Leadership Training, and being inducted into the Order of the Arrow. Through all of this, Ashlyn’s excitement about sScouting only continues to grow and become infectious to others in the troop. This journey for Ashlyn is not over at Eagle. She plans to continue to earn Eagle Palms, having already earned 3 and has a goal of 60 merit badges by the time she turns 18. She will also now be taking on a bigger role within the Troop as a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster, and will be encouraged to become an even stronger leader.

Ashlyn comes from a long lineage of Scouting. Her grandmother was the first female leader for her uncle’s BSA Troop many years ago when he was in Scouts, her grandfather was a Sea Scout leader, her father is Scout Master of the Scouts BSA troop 268 linked to her Scouts BSA Troop 1268G and her older brother is also an Eagle Scout.

We congratulate Ashlyn on all she has achieved and will continue to help her to achieve more.

For more information on our program, please visit www.troop1268.org.

 

I have more Merit Badges than my sister………

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Tonight we had an in-person court of honor and I got my Scout rank and 5 merit badges that I got online over the summer working with virtual merit badge counselors. We did a socially distanced mask wearing ceremony outside. We made s’mores at the fire ring and it started to rain so we went home. My mom and sister in 1158G took photos of me for this because I’m now 5 merit badge ahead of my sister and the same rank as her. Mom is calling this sibling rivalry… in a good way. I love having more merit badges than her.

Guidance for Advancement During COVID-19 Update

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COVID-19 FAQ

UPDATED 8/30/20 – The most recent updates are indicated by a diamond in front of the question.

In-Person Unit Activities

Q: Should we hold in-person Scouting meetings, outings, or activities?

With safety in mind and based on guidance from national health officials, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) is strongly advising that in-person meetings, activities, events and gatherings be conducted only within the guidelines outlined by your state and local health department and other local officials, as well as under the direction of your local BSA council and chartered organization. This applies to youth and adults. Please review the Restart Scouting Checklist for additional information.

Q: If meeting locations are open, can units meet or do other in-person activities?

Councils make the determination, working closely with their council health supervisor and local health department, about when units can conduct in-person meetings and activities again. If the unit’s local council is allowing in-person activities but has restrictions in place (e.g., no more than 10, social distancing of 6 ft. etc.), the unit must meet and abide by those restrictions – even if the unit is traveling out of council/state.

Q: What do we do about Scouts’ fundraising activities? 

Fundraising activities may be held if those activities are conducted within guidelines outlined by your state and local health department and other local officials and under the direction of your local BSA council and chartered organization. This applies to youth and adults. If fundraising activities can be facilitated using digital methods while still adhering to applicable rules, then those activities may continue.

Q: What is BSA’s policy on social distancing in a tenting environment when camping?

Camping should only take place in accordance with guidelines outlined by your state and local health department and other local officials, as well as under the direction of your local BSA council and chartered organization. There is no formal national policy on social distancing in tents, just as there is no prohibition on tenting alone if logistics can accommodate that request. As always, all BSA youth protection policies must be followed.

Q: What are the youth protection guidelines if I am using a commercial video conferencing platform that allows for breakout rooms?

All breakout rooms for youth must have at least one registered adult and either another registered adult or a parent/legal guardian of a participating Scout.

Q: What are the refund policies if I have already paid for an event that has been cancelled?

Event organizers typically set refund or cancellation policies.  Please reach out directly to those organizers.  In the case of attendance at a national high adventure base, contact them directly about your crew

Camping this Fall/Winter

♦ Q: There was an extension for Part C, pre-placement exam of the Annual Health and Medical Record at my camp this summer, is that still in effect?  

As of 8/31/2020, the extension granted to certain BSA Accredited Council Camps and High Adventure Bases is expired. If your programs or activities require a valid Part C, it must be in place. As a reminder, if you are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19, please ensure you have approval from your health care provider prior to attending camp.

We also encourage anyone whose medical condition or history has changed significantly since their last physical exam to get approval from their health care provider prior to attending camp.

♦ Q: If my camp is cancelled, can my unit get together with other units and have our own camp?

No. Chartering organizations play an important role in the program and activities for their chartered units. Chartering organizations promote well-planned unit program for the units they charter and encourage their units to have active outdoor unit programs. Chartering organizations are not authorized to plan, promote, or deliver programs for units outside of their charter.

It is the role of the council to plan long-term or resident camps and the role of councils or districts to plan camporees and other outings during the year that give youth an opportunity to test their knowledge and skills in competitive events with other troops and/or patrols.

When units with different chartered organizations do activities together, this becomes a district or council event and requires council approval. In fact, some states require such activities to be licensed.

Should your troop, crew or ship decide to do a long-term camping program for their own unit (Cub Scouts units are prohibited from this activity) please note that the Scouter Code of Conduct and relevant program safety and training requirements are still in place, e.g., Safe Swim Defense, Hazardous Weather, Wilderness First Aid, etc.

Q: My Wilderness First Aid Course has been cancelled; can I still go on my trek? 

Current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification will continue to be required for backcountry adventures including trek programs and high adventure base participation. As a reminder, a current CPR/AED certification is a prerequisite for a WFA course.

For the summer of 2020, please review options for NCAP accredited local council camps and National High Adventure Bases via a blended offering by ECSI:  https://www.ecsinstitute.org/scouting-wfa

Note: Online-only WFA courses do not meet the WFA requirement.

Advancement

Q: How can advancement be tracked remotely?

Scouting units should use Scoutbook to record and track advancement.

To track advancement remotely, parents should:

  • Connect with their child’s member profile via an invitation that the unit leader sends within Scoutbook. You may also connect to your youth via the Scouting app “Add a Parent connection.”
  • Once a connection is made, the parent should use the Scouting app, found in both the App Store and on Google Play, to stay connected with their unit.
  • The Scouting app provides parents the ability to report any advancement that was completed at home.

Learn more about how to start using Scoutbook and how to connect parents to their Scouts at Scoutbook.com.

Advancement — Cub Scouts

Q: May parents sign off on Webelos and Arrow of Light requirements?

Yes. Through July 31, 2020, parents and other adults in the Cub Scout’s family, may sign off on Webelos and Arrow of Light requirements. We strongly encourage that parents use the Scouting App or ScoutBook to record completion of their child’s requirements.

Q: If my den is behind in advancement due to COVID-19, can my Cub Scout continue to work on advancement through the summer?

Yes. Cub Scouts can continue to work on their current den’s advancement through July 31, 2020.  This is to provide any additional time a Cub Scout needs to complete their badge of rank; if they earn their badge of rank prior to July 31, 2020, they may advance to the next rank.

Q: Can the Arrow of Light (fifth-grade dens) requirements fulfill the requirement to visit a troop or attend a troop outing to function as a patrol? 

Yes. Two things to keep in mind, the standard of completion for Cub Scout advancement is “Do Your Best,” so given the circumstances, we want to look at the purpose behind the requirements. Remember that doing nothing is never doing your best. 

Dens can visit a virtual troop meeting to see the patrol method and youth leadership in action. Since the den cannot attend a troop campout or outing, the idea is for the den to function as a patrol while attending the virtual troop meeting. During this time, a virtual den meeting where the den functions as a patrol can be done. Elect a patrol leader, pick a patrol name, play a virtual game together as a patrol. Plenty of opportunities to Do Your Best to meet the intention of the requirement. Remember to maintain all youth protection standards online.

What is the guidance for completing the Outdoor Activity Award and Summertime Pack Award?

Packs and dens should do their best to meet the intent of the awards. If a required activity (such as day camp or resident camp) is not possible due to the COVID-19 pandemic, packs can utilize an alternative option of their choosing. Units should continue to follow any restrictions outlined by their state and local health departments or other local officials regarding gatherings, etc.

Advancement — Scouts BSA, Venturing and Sea Scouts

♦ Q: Will there be any changes to the Swimming requirements for Second and First class?

Swimming remains a major health and safety concern and cannot be abandoned by Scouts BSA. With that in mind, the Swimming rank requirements for Second Class (5b) and First Class (6a) may be deferred until each Scout’s next rank, as necessary (through Life, but not Eagle).

Second Class requirement (5b) Demonstrate your ability to pass the BSA beginner test: Jump feet first into water over your head in depth, level off and swim 25 feet on the surface, stop, turn sharply, resume swimming, then return to your starting place.

First Class requirement (6a) Successfully complete the BSA swimmer test.

This temporary deferment will allow Scouts to advance in rank up to, and including Life Scout, but not beyond. All other rank requirements must still be earned to advance. When conditions warrant and upon direction from the National Council, these requirements will be reinstated with 30 days’ notice to our Scouting family via Workplace, Bryan on Scouting, Scouting Wire, social media, and any other means determined appropriate.

For clarity, the following swimming requirements can be completed on dry land and are not a hindrance to advancing:

Second Class requirement (5c) Demonstrate water rescue methods by reaching with your arm or leg, by reaching with a suitable object, and by throwing lines and objects.
First Class requirement (6e) With a helper and a practice victim, show a line rescue both as tender and as rescuer. (The practice victim should be approximately 30 feet from shore in deep water.)

♦ Q: Do I still need to take a swim test for aquatic activities since there is a deferment in place?

A: The deferment is only for rank requirements Second Class(5b) and First Class(6A). Aquatic activities still require current and valid swim testing for both Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat. If swim checks for these events cannot be done, then the aquatics activities cannot take place.

♦ Q: Will there be any changes for Scouts who cannot complete the camping merit badge?

COVID-19 has resulted in Scouts being unable to complete the Eagle-required Camping merit badge, specifically requirement 9b.

Requirement (9b) On any of these (Scouting) camping experiences, you must do TWO of the following,
only with proper preparation and under qualified supervision.
(1) Hike up a mountain, gaining at least 1,000 vertical feet.
(2) Backpack, snowshoe, or cross-country ski for at least 4 miles.
(3) Take a bike trip of at least 15 miles or at least four hours.
(4) Take a nonmotorized trip on the water of at least four hours or 5 miles.
(5) Plan and carry out an overnight snow camping experience.
(6) Rappel down a rappel route of 30 feet or more.

Although this requirement adds “Scout fun” to a camping experience, it will be temporarily suspended as a requirement  to earn this badge. All other Camping merit badge requirements must still be completed to earn this badge. Upon direction from the National Council, requirement 9b will be reinstated with 30 days’ notice to our Scouting community through national channels.

 Q: Can merit badge counseling or Nova/Supernova counseling be done using digital technologies like Zoom or WebEx?

Yes, registered merit badge counselors or Nova counselors/Supernova mentors may work with youth using digital platforms, ensuring that all youth protection measures noted in the Guide to Safe Scouting and BSA’s social media guidelines are in place. In addition to youth protection, the advancement guidelines in Guide to Advancement (GTA) Section 7 are required.

 Q: Are merit badge counselors allowed to provide online instruction?
Yes. Merit badge counselors should follow the guidelines in the Guide to Advancement 7.0.3.2 and ensure you are adhering to all youth protection requirements and online communications guidelines. It is acceptable—and sometimes preferable—for merit badges to be taught in group settings, including online instruction. We currently allow group instruction at camp and merit badge midways, fairs, clinics, or similar events. These can be efficient methods, and interactive group discussions can support learning. Gathering a group online can also be beneficial. Guest experts and speakers that assist registered and approved counselors may be more willing to speak to a larger online audience. Slide shows, skits, demonstrations, panels, and various other techniques can also be employed, but as any teacher can attest, not everyone will learn all the material. Therefore, the standards we use to verify that each Scout has fulfilled requirements must not be relaxed. Merit badge counselors must be sure that each Scout has individually gained the knowledge intended. When accomplished, counselors can easily sign off requirements via ScoutBook.

Q: Can I connect directly with my Scouts/Venturers/Sea Scouts if I am a merit badge counselor?
Yes. In ScoutBook, merit badge counselors can now connect directly with the Scouts they are counseling; see https://discussions.scouting.org/t/march-23-2020-scoutbook-updates/165970 NOTE: Scouts/Venturers/Sea Scouts still must get approval from their leader, according to Guide to Advancement 7.0.3.0.  

Q: How will I know if a Scout/Venturer/Sea Scout has obtained approval from their leader to work on a merit badge?
In the member profile, you will see if the leader has signed off with their approval.

Q: What if my member profile shows that my merit badge counselor status has expired:
Check with your council. Local councils may need to upload their latest list of approved merit badge counselors.

Q: Will unit leaders know that a merit badge counselor has connected with one of their Scouts/Venturers/Sea Scouts?
Yes. The unit Key 3 will receive an email that includes the name of the merit badge counselor, the Scout, and the name of the merit badge.

Q: What if I have other merit badge/ScoutBook questions?
See https://help.scoutbook.com/knowledge-base/scoutbook-merit-badge-counselor-council-upload-faq/

♦ Q: What changes have been made to rank advancement/camping requirements given the need to maintain social distancing during this time?
We have implemented temporary changes, detailed below, to allow Scouts to complete rank requirements, detailed below, by video conferencing through December 31, 2020. This deadline will be re-evaluated as needed.
The goal when using video conferencing must be to preserve the ideals and intent of each requirement as best as possible. Scoutmasters or their designee(s) should remain mindful of the Methods of Scouting, such as the Patrol Method, before implementing the modified requirements listed below. Some advancement activities can be completed by video conferencing but not all. For example, virtual visits to a city council meeting, national historic landmarks, museums, and art galleries may be acceptable, but swimming, rifle shooting, and motorboating merit badges cannot be completed virtually.
Even when using video conferencing, all virtual campouts and activities should consist of as many elements found on a normal outdoor campout or activity as possible. The most significant difference is that patrol or troop members are not all in the same location. All existing youth protection policies and digital safety guidelines must be followed.
Tenderfoot rank requirements
1b. – Virtual patrol or troop campouts via video conferencing will be permitted.
2a. – During the same day as your virtual patrol or troop campout, assist in preparing one meal with the help of those with whom you live. Tell your patrol or troop why it was important for each person to share in meal preparation and cleanup.
2b. – During the same day as your virtual campout, demonstrate the appropriate method of safely cleaning items used to prepare, serve and eat a meal.
5a. – Explain the importance of the buddy system as it relates to your personal safety on outings and in your neighborhood. Verbally commit to following the buddy system on your next troop or patrol outing.
7a. – Tell how to display, raise, lower, and fold the U.S. flag.
Second Class rank requirements:
1a & 1c. – Virtual patrol or troop activities via video conferencing will be permitted.
3b. – Using a compass and map together, plan a 5-mile hike approved by your adult leader.
4. – Evidence of wild animals can be demonstrated with information or photos of your local area found online.
5c. – May be completed virtually via video conferencing on dry land.
7c. – Learn about the dangers of using drugs, alcohol and tobacco and other practices that could be harmful to your health. Discuss what you learned with your family and explain the dangers of substance addictions. Report to your Scoutmaster or other adult leader in your troop about which parts of the Scout Oath and Scout Law relate to what you learned.
8a. – May be completed virtually using video conferencing.
8d. – May be completed by comparing costs at three (3) online sites or locations.
First Class rank requirements:
1a – Virtual patrol or troop activities via video conferencing will be permitted.
2e. – On the same day as your virtual campout, serve as the cook. Supervise your assistant(s) in using a stove or building a cooking fire. Prepare the breakfast, lunch, and dinner planned in First Class requirement 2a. Supervise the cleanup.
4a. – By drawing, computer software, or other virtual methods, plan an orienteering course that would cover at least one mile. Explain why measuring the height and/or width of designated items (tree, tower, canyon, ditch, etc.) is helpful. Explain how you would complete your course using a real map and compass.
4b. – Scouts do not need to follow their route.
5a. – Evidence of native plants can be demonstrated with information or photos of your local area found online.
6e. – May be completed on dry land.
9a. – Visit may take place virtually or by phone.
9c. – Outings can include past or future plans.
10. – Invite the potential new member to a virtual meeting or future activity using video conferencing. 

Q: Will virtual camping count toward Order of the Arrow nights camping? 

Virtual camping (i.e., backyard or solo camping) may be counted toward the required nights of camping for OA election eligibility if all the following stipulations are met:
– To be counted, all virtual camping nights should be a direct result of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and be part of a BSA unit-organized unit camping event (i.e., multiple members of the unit are involved and camping simultaneously at remote locations).
– Some form of unit-organized communications should occur either during or immediately following the event.
– All existing youth protection policies and digital safety guidelines must be followed.
– No more than 3 nights of virtual camping are to be credited in any month in which government- or council-imposed COVID-19 restrictions are in place.
This change is in effect until September 1, 2020. Please see https://oa-bsa.org/coronavirus/temporary-camping-night-policy-due-covid-19 for further details.
Units that have already held an election between March 1, 2020 and April 30, 2020 are authorized to hold one additional election for any individuals who were ineligible at the time of the election due to the camping requirement, but would have been considered eligible at the time if this temporary policy had then been in effect. This second election must be completed no later than July 1, 2020. Those who were previously considered for election in the first election may not be reconsidered on this second ballot (i.e., no one can be considered for election more than once in a year).

Q: Can merit badge requirements be adapted since some elements can’t be completed as stated right now?
The published guidelines for the methodology of the merit badge program and the role of the merit badge counselor is found in the Guide to Advancement, Section 7.0.0.0. It is important to remember that leaders and merit badge counselors must not make additions or deletions to requirements. The Scout is expected to meet the requirements as stated; however, in some cases, virtual “visits” may fulfill the intent of a requirement. When the requirement’s intent cannot be reached virtually, the requirements cannot be completed, and the Scout must wait to complete that badge/requirement. Merit badge counselors signing off on requirements must determine to the best of their ability if the Scout has demonstrated the intended outcome.
All existing youth protection policies and digital safety guidelines must be followed.

Q: Does a Scout need a hard copy of a Blue Card when working on merit badges?
No. Since the introduction of Scoutbook, the BSA has offered Scouts two ways of recording merit badge requirement completion: The Blue Card and Scoutbook. Both remain authorized methods to record merit badge work. Scoutbook is a part of the BSA Internet Advancement system, which means that entering an advancement record in Scoutbook is the same as entering it in Internet Advancement. Anyone with a BSA member ID automatically has access to a Scoutbook account through their my.scouting account.

Q: May time missed due to canceled unit meetings count toward active participation requirements?

Yes. If youth are registered and in good standing, a disruption from COVID-19 virus can be the “noteworthy circumstance” that prevents participation. This policy has been in place for many years and is explained in GTA Topic 4.2.3.1.

Q: May time missed due to canceled unit meetings count toward position of responsibility requirements?

Yes. If youth are registered and unable to meet the expectations of their positions because of COVID-19 disruptions, then units may need to waive or rethink the expectations. Just as youth must not be held to unestablished expectations, they must not be held to expectations that are impossible to fulfill. See GTA Topic 4.2.3.4, “Positions of Responsibility,” with its six subtopics.

Q: Does the National Council grant extensions of time to complete rank requirements beyond the 18thbirthday for the Eagle or 21st birthday for Summit or Quartermaster?

Yes, but only for the Eagle Scout rank as described in GTA Topic 9.0.4.0 or for Venturing Summit or Sea Scout Quartermaster as described in GTA Topic 4.3.3.0. Unit leadership must become familiar with the five tests under 9.0.4.0. The tests were designed to accommodate such obstacles as those presented by COVID-19 disruptions.

Q: Will youth who are not yet Life Scouts be allowed to apply for an extension to earn the Eagle Scout rank?

Extensions are considered only for Scouts who are Life rank. If, once a Scout achieves Life rank, it turns out that COVID-19 disruptions along the way have left them with insufficient time to complete Eagle requirements, then this may be cited when the time comes to submit an extension request.

Q: May local councils grant extensions?

The Guide to Advancement (GTA) continues to serve and guide Scouts, adult leaders, and councils on the proper reasoning and procedures for extending the deadline for competing all work toward the rank of Eagle Scout beyond the age of eligibility. Currently, Scouts may apply to the National Council for extensions as outlined in the GTA (section 9.0.4.0).

To assist Scouts during the ongoing pandemic, local councils have been twice granted the authority to extend the timeframe, for up to three months each time (now totaling a possible 6-month extension) to complete all work only for the rank of Eagle. This was done to eliminate any potential delays in the normal process.  The authority for councils to grant these extensions is currently scheduled to expire September 30, 2020.

Local councils will now be given authority by the National Council to grant an additional three-month extension, which will end December 31, 2020. During this time, the National Council will evaluate permanently allowing councils the ability to approve Eagle/Summit/ Quartermaster extensions beyond the age of eligibility of up to six months. This would make unnecessary for local councils to forward those requests to the National Council.

If it is determined to permanently grant councils the six-month extension authority, Scouts would still be able to appeal to the National Council should their local council not approve their extension request.

Q: If youth have already received an extension, can they request additional time due to COVID-19?

Yes. Council Scout executives may grant extensions, or delegate authority to the Council Advancement Committee to grant extensions under the limitations listed above.

Q: What should be done while an extension request is being considered?

Youth should continue to work on advancement in so far as they are able—e.g., independently, or over the phone or videoconference—and at Scouting activities once they resume.

Q: Are extensions required when an Eagle/Summit/Quartermaster board of review must be delayed?

No. Councils may grant Eagle/Summit/Quartermaster boards of review up to six months after the youth’s 18th/21st birthday. See GTA Topic 8.0.3.1, “Eagle Scout Board of Review Beyond the 18th Birthday.”

See also, GTA Topic 8.0.1.6, “Boards of Review Through Videoconferencing.”

Q: Are electronic or digital signatures acceptable for rank advancement or for the Eagle/Summit/Quartermaster packets/applications?
Yes. Electronic or digital signatures will be accepted through September 30, 2020.

Q: How can a youth continue to work on advancement requirements if they don’t have internet or high-speed internet for videoconferencing?
Youth may take a picture of their completed activity/requirement and share the work with unit leaders. In keeping with youth protection policies, all communications from youth should be sent to at least two adults. See our Barriers to Abuse for details. Parents or guardians may send advancement work on behalf of their child.

 

Guidance on Advancement During COVID-19

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This guidance provides districts and units within the National Capital Area Council guidance and answers too many of the questions being asked during the COVID-19 crisis.  This guidance has been revised following Virginia, Maryland, and District of Columbia “stay at home” orders, BSA and NCAC guidance, and many of your questions.  This information will be posted on the NCAC website under Advancement and distributed widely to districts and unit leaders.  If you have a question or need clarification, your district leaders should be your primary source for answers.

Scout / Adult Meetings (see Guidelines for Virtual Meetings – https://weownadventure.com/ncac-guidance-on-virtual-meetings-with-youth/)

  • Merit Badges, Unit Leader Conferences, Boards of Review for Tenderfoot through Life
    • Even though groups <10 can meet, all in-person meetings for rank advancement, merit badges, unit leader conferences, or boards of review are non-essential per Executive Orders from Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia
    • Before scheduling something, review latest government and chartered organization requirements for your location which are subject to change as this situation evolves.
    • Any meetings in support of these activities must be conducted via video-conferencing, telephone, or other electronic means
    • Ensure youth protection policies and guidance are observed at all times
    • Of the carriers we surveyed, currently only Zoom complies with our age requirements; check with your carriers for compliance before choosing
      • Zoom – https://zoom.us/ allows for users under 13, is in use for K-12 programs and is broadly approved for use in schools.
        • The free Zoom account is limited to 40-minutes
        • A unit can create one plan with a single host for its activities, provided that only one meeting at a time is scheduled
      • Be mindful of sharing usernames and passwords for the account and consider using a new email account tied to the troop committee or leader that is not used for other accounts
    • Meeting Guidelines and Rules
      • Meeting Password – Require meeting password so the meeting is secure.
      • Audio – Use of computer audio is best, so you can clearly understand who is speaking and listening as they are required to login.
      • Meeting Options – Disable the Join Before Host feature so early callers cannot access before required adult supervision is present
      • The moderator can control muting for all participants; the moderator can designate a co-host to provide administrative support
      • Enable waiting room – To keep early arrivals in a queue.  You can then add everyone when the adult supervision requirement is met
    • Additional ZOOM Settings – adjust the settings here – https://zoom.us/profile/setting
      • Host video — ENABLE
      • Participants video — DISABLE
      • Join before host — DISABLE
      • Embed password in meeting link for one-click join — ENABLE
      • Require password for participants joining by phone — ENABLE
      • Mute participants upon entry — ENABLE
      • Chat — ENABLE
      • Prevent participants from saving chat — DISABLE
      • Private chat — DISABLE
      • Autosaving chats — ENABLE
      • Automatically save all in-meeting chats so that hosts do not need to manually save the text of File transfer — ENABLE
      • Allow host to put attendee on hold — ENABLE
      • Allow hosts to temporarily remove an attendee from the meeting. — ENABLE
      • Screen sharing — ENABLE
      • Remote control — DISABLE
      • Breakout room – ENABLE if enough adults present for patrol or den meetings (or set up separate online meetings for this)
      • Far end camera control — DISABLE
      • Identify guest participants in the meeting/webinar
      • Waiting room — ENABLE
      • Show a “Join from your browser” link — ENABLE
      • Mask phone number in the participant list — ENABLE
    • Guidelines for other platforms
      • Check the terms and conditions for the online service to make sure that the service allows for users under the age of 13

Rank Advancement

  • No changes, no exceptions to requirements unless approved by NCAC ARC through Guide to Advancement processes
  • Unit leaders, without altering rank requirements, should be creative when looking for ways to verify a Scout has completed a “Show” or “Demonstrate” requirement
    • Youth may take a picture of their completed activity/requirement or video and share the work with unit leaders
  • To comply with youth protection policies, all communications from youth should be sent to at least two adults
  • Parents or guardians may send advancement work on behalf of their child
  • The definition of a Patrol has not changed and consists of a group of Scouts led by a Patrol Leader that is part of a Scouts BSA Troop
  • Likewise, the definition of camping nights has not changed; camping nights need to be in patrols.  Virtual camping (e.g., in your tent alone in your house or backyard, connected by Zoom to your unit) does not qualify as camping nights – even though it may be fun!

Merit Badge Group Instruction Guidelines

  • Approvals – refer to the NCAC Policy on Merit Badge Group Instruction summarized here
    • A troop or crew can use group instruction of merit badges within their unit without seeking approval from the council or district
    • If a unit decides to offer a merit badge opportunity to Scouts outside their unit (does not apply to a pair of Family Scouting troops), an individual counselor can solicit Scouts, or the district may sponsor the event; in either case, the counselor must get district advancement committee approval to conduct the event
    • The district advancement committee needs the opportunity to ensure compliance with the GTA guidance on group instruction, including a review of the material for the course
  • Blue Cards
    • An e-mail from the unit leader will suffice as the first signature for the Scout on a blue card – it is simply an acknowledgement  that the unit leader has discussed the merit badge with the Scout and he has recommended at least one counselor
    • For NCAC sponsored merit badge classes, a blue card will be generated and sent to the Scout once the Scout has completed the requirements
    • For unit merit badges, blue cards can be exchanged once unit meetings restart
  • Group Size
    • Each counselor is responsible for determining the best class size for their badge
      • Set the size to ensure each Scout receives high-quality, personal instruction and benefits from the counselor’s unique knowledge
      • Don’t focus on the number of Scouts who can take a class or complete a badge
    • Regardless of group size, each Scout must still “actually and personally” fulfill each requirement
    • For larger groups, multiple qualified instructors may be necessary to assist the primary merit badge counselor in order to ensure Scouts receive individual attention
      • Additional instructors should be knowledgeable about the merit badge subject, but they do not necessarily need to be registered as merit badge counselors
  • Completing Requirements
    • Make certain each Scout personally completes each requirement; some ideas to accomplish this are:
      • Create a Gmail address for Scouts to send written work
      • Use Zoom (see below) to view each Scout completing a task
      • Use Zoom (see below) with conversation muting to listen to each Scout provide the answer to a requirement
    • Group instruction does not mean group testing
    • Each Scout must complete each requirement as written, without exception
  • Worksheets
    • Counselors can use worksheets to assign work on some types of requirements to Scouts
    • Scout may also use worksheets to refresh their memory during testing on requirements
    • Completing an entire worksheet does not constitute completing a merit badge

Merit Badges On-Line (see Guidelines for Virtual Meetings – https://weownadventure.com/ncac-guidance-on-virtual-meetings-with-youth/)

  • Cyber Chip – not required to participate in an on-line merit badge course, just a good idea
    • Youth should earn or renew their Cyber Chip prior to participating or it can be a requirement during the first meeting.
    • Instruct Scouts to use public communication methods or to include a parent/guardian for all communication with adults.

Lone Scouts

  • Requests to re-designate Scouts as Lone Scouts will not be approved for the purposes of effecting advancement requirements during COVID-19

Registration Beyond the Age of Eligibility

  • No change to the process

Active Participation

  • Time missed due to canceled unit meetings still counts
  • Be sure Scout is registered and in good standing
  • The Covid-19 virus is considered a “noteworthy circumstance” – GTA Topic 4.2.3.1.

Positions of Responsibility

  • Units may need to waive normal responsibilities or rethink the expectations.  Units must credit the Scout with time served.  Lack of unit activity because of COVID-19 cannot be held against the Scout.
  • Youth must not be held to unestablished expectations or expectations impossible to fulfill
  • See GTA Topic 4.2.3.4, “Positions of Responsibility,” with its six subtopics.

Eagle Projects

  • The planning and development of an Eagle Scout Service Project can continue consist with the previously mentioned Executive Orders.  Proposals may be approved using electronic means.
  • The conduct of an Eagle Scout Service Project must be put on hold until constraints directed by the Executive Orders are removed.

Eagle Scout Rank Application Verification

  • NCAC is still verifying Eagle Scout Rank Applications prior to the Eagle Scout Board of Review
  • Please be patient as council resources are limited

Eagle Scout Boards of Review

  • An in-person Eagle Scout board of review provides the Scout with an opportunity to learn, grow and celebrate achievements.  It provides the youth with an experience superior to a videoconference Board of Review.  Council can approve extensions to conduct Eagle/Summit/Quartermaster boards of review up to six months after the youth’s 18th /21st birthday.
  • If an Eagle Scout board of review must be convened using videoconferencing, make a request to the NCAC ARC (alandeter@verizon.net), and indicate the following:
    • Scout’s Name, BSA ID, Date of Birth
    • Troop, District
    • Reason for Request including the urgency that argues against holding an in-person Board of Review when conditions allow in-person meetings
  • The recommended platform for conducting the Eagle Scout Board of Review is Zoom
    • Use the settings under Merit Badges On-line
    • Do NOT record the board of review
  • A videoconference board of review needs to comply with the Guide to Advancement (see 8.0.1.6) which basically says:
    • The NCAC is the authority for granting permission to hold a videoconference board of review for the Eagle Scout rank
    • All equipment should be tested ahead of time to provide the best audiovisual experience possible
    • All members of the board of review must be visible to the Scout, and any observers with the Scout must be visible to the members of the board of review
    • No one within hearing range on either side shall be off camera
    • Observers should be minimized
    • For Scouts under the age of 18, a parent or guardian of the Scout, or two registered adult leaders as required by the Guide to Safe Scouting (www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/gss/gss01) who are familiar with these requirements for videoconference boards of review, must be directly present with the Scout at the beginning of the conference
      • The Scouters may be from the nearest council, district, or unit
      • Their role is to verify that the Scout is in a safe environment and that the board of review appears to be in compliance with the requirements
      • Once all the members of the board of review are present on their end of the call and introductions are completed, and the review is about to begin, anyone present with the Scout must leave the room or move out of hearing distance unless they have specifically been approved to remain as observers.
    • Once the review process has been concluded, if the Scout is under age 18, the Scout’s parent or guardian, or two registered adult leaders must rejoin the Scout; their purpose is to:
      • Be available to answer any questions that may arise
      • Join in the celebration of the Scout’s accomplishment, or
      • Be party to any instructions or arrangements regarding the appeals process or the reconvening of an incomplete review

Board of Review Extensions – Eagle Scout / Summit / Quartermaster

  • NCAC will grant extensions to conduct Eagle/Summit/Quartermaster boards of review up to six months after the youth’s 18th/21st birthday (see GTA Topic 8.0.3.1 (Eagle Scout Board of Review Beyond the 18th Birthday))
  • Please ensure the following is done prior to making the request:
    • The Eagle Scout Service Project Report is complete and signed
    • The Statement of Ambitions and Life Purpose and List of Leadership Positions, Honors, and Awards are done
    • The ESRA is done, signed, and verified through NCAC
    • The information for the reference letters has been provided to the unit and the unit has made the requests
  • To receive permission to hold an Eagle Scout Board of Review between 3 months and 6 months following the Scout’s 18th birthday, the Scout, parent, unit, or district should send a request to the NCAC ARC (alandeter@verizon.net), and indicate the following:
    • Scout’s Name, BSA ID, Date of Birth
    • Troop, District
    • Reason for Request

Eagle Scout Packages

  • Electronic or digital signatures are acceptable for Eagle/Summit/Quartermaster packets/applications through September 30, 2020
  • After a successful Eagle Scout Board of Review, the unit or family should hold onto completed packages until travel restrictions are relaxed and they can be dropped off at NCAC for processing

Request for Extension of Time to Earn Eagle Scout / Quartermaster / Summit Rank

  • COVID-19 Exclusive
    • NCAC Approval by ARC Chair or Program Director
      • Effective now through September 30, 2020
      • Complete and submit the Request for Extension per the instructions on the form
    • Duration
      • For Eagle, the extension will be for 3 months from the Scout’s 18th birthday
      • For Summit/Quartermaster, the extension will be for 3 months from the youth’s 21st birthday
    • Limitations
      • COVID-19 disruptions are the only circumstances that delayed work on advancement requirements, such as the service project or merit badges
      • Extensions shall only be granted to youth in Scouts BSA who have already achieved Life rank
      • Upon receipt, the council will review the request and approve, if appropriate
        • A written response stating the outcome of the extension request will go to the youth and unit leader identified on the request
        • If approved, the notification must be attached to the youth’s Eagle/Summit/Quartermaster rank application
      • Upon turning 18, the Scout must submit a completed adult application and successfully complete YPT; their participant code will now be UP for SBSA or VP for Venturing and Sea Scouting
      • Extension requests for more than 3 months beyond the youth’s 18th/21st birthday must be sent to the National Service Center following the process outlined in the GTA
    • Request for Extension Content
      • Scout’s Registered Name, E-Mail, Contact Number, BSA ID, DoB
      • Troop, District
      • Life Scout Board of Review Date
      • Description of Eagle Project
      • Reason for Delay
      • Adult’s Name, E-Mail, Contact Number
  • Non-COVID-19 Related or Mixed Explanation
    • Only for the Eagle Scout rank (see GTA Topic 9.0.4.0) or for Venturing Summit or Sea Scout Quartermaster (see GTA Topic 4.3.3.0)
    • The five tests still apply under 9.0.4.0.
    • Contact NCAC ARC Appeals and Extensions Coordinator (Brad Scales, msva_tenor@yahoo.com), reference the Eagle Scout Procedures Guide, or NCAC website under Eagle Scout Information for additional details
    • If youth have already received an extension they can request additional time due to COVID-19 through the NCAC ARC

Q&A for Advancement & COVID-19

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Questions and Answers

Cub Scouting/Scouts BSA/Venturing/Sea Scouting Rank Advancement and the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The following questions regarding advancement have arisen as we deal with closures, cancellations, or other issues caused by the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). Although there are difficulties and constraints, advancement can continue. Youth, parents, and leaders should work together to implement creative, common sense ways to facilitate advancement while adhering to the Guide to Safe Scouting and following the rules of Youth Protection training.

Please follow this link to the Guide to Advancement (GTA), whichremains the primary source for information related to Scouts BSA advancement. It is referenced throughout the answers provided here.

Please send additional questions to advancement.team@scouting.org

All Scouting Programs

Q: How can advancement be tracked remotely?

A: Scouting units should use ScoutBook to record and track advancement. 

To track advancement remotely, parents should:1) Connect with their child’s member profile via an invitation that the unit leader sends within ScoutBook. 2) Once a connection is made, the parent should use the Scouting app, found in both the App Store and Google Play, to stay connected with their unit. 3) The Scouting app provides parents the ability to report any advancement that was completed at home. 

Go to https://help.scoutbook.com to learn more about how to start using ScoutBook and how to connect parents to their Scouts.

Cub Scouts

Q: May parents sign off on Webelos and Arrow of Light requirements?

A: Yes. Through July 31, 2020, parents and other adults in the Cub Scout’s family, may sign off on Webelos and Arrow of Light requirements. We strongly encourage that parents use the Scouting App or ScoutBook to record completion of their child’s requirements. 

Q: If my den is behind in advancement due to COVID-19, can my Cub Scout continue to work on advancement through the summer?

A: Yes. Cub Scouts can continue to work on their current den’s advancement through July 31, 2020.  This is to provide any additional time a Cub Scout needs to complete their badge of rank; if they earn their badge of rank prior to July 31, 2020, they may advance to the next rank.

Scouts BSA, Venturing and Sea Scouts

Q: ​May merit badge requirements or rank requirements be modified?

A: ​No. All requirements must be completed as written. If meetings or activities are canceled or limited, youth should continue to work on requirements as far as possible. By employing common sense and creative solutions, many requirements–even Scoutmaster conferences–can be fulfilled through videoconferencing or telephone calls. 

Q: ​Can merit badge counseling or Nova/Supernova counseling be done using digital technologies like Zoom or WebEx?

A: Yes, registered merit badge counselors or Nova counselors/Supernova mentors may work with youth using digital platforms, ensuring that all youth protection measures noted in the Guide to Safe Scouting and BSA’s social media guidelines are in place. In addition to youth protection, the advancement guidelines in GTA Section 7 are required. 

Q: ​May time missed due to canceled unit meetings count toward active participation requirements?

A: ​Yes. If youth are registered and in good standing, a disruption from COVID-19 virus can be the “noteworthy circumstance” that prevents participation. This policy has been in place for many years and is explained in GTA Topic 4.2.3.1.

Q: ​May time missed due to canceled unit meetings count toward position of responsibility requirements?

A: ​Yes. If youth are registered and unable to meet the expectations of their positions because of COVID-19 disruptions, then units may need to waive or rethink the expectations. Just asyouth must not be held to unestablished expectations, they must not be held to expectations that are impossible to fulfill. See GTA Topic 4.2.3.4, “Positions of Responsibility,” with its six subtopics.

Q: ​Does the National Council grant extensions of time to complete rank requirements beyond the 18th birthday for the Eagle or 21st birthday for Summit or Quartermaster?

A: ​Yes, but only for the Eagle Scout rank as described in GTA Topic 9.0.4.0 or for Venturing Summit or Sea Scout Quartermaster as described in GTA Topic 4.3.3.0. Unit leadership must become familiar with the five tests under 9.0.4.0. The tests were designed to accommodate such obstacles as those presented by COVID-19disruptions.

Q: ​Will youth who are not yet Life Scouts be allowed to apply for an extension to earn the Eagle Scout rank?

A. Extensions are considered only for Scouts who are Life rank. If,once a Scout achieves Life rank, it turns out that COVID-19disruptions along the way have left them with insufficient time to complete Eagle requirements, then this may be cited when the time comes to submit an extension request.

Q: ​May local councils grant extensions?

A: ​Normally, that is not allowed. However, due to the current situation—effective immediately and through September 30, 2020—council Scout executives may grant extensions, or delegate authority to the Council Advancement Committee to grant extensions under the following limitations:1. It can be established that COVID-19 disruptions were the only circumstances that delayed work on Eagle Scout/Summit/Quartermaster advancement requirements, such as the service project or merit badges. If any other causes were involved, the extension request must go to the National Councilfollowing the process outlined in the GTA.2. Extensions shall only be granted to youth in Scouts BSA who have already achieved Life rank.3. When the council receives a COVID-19-related request for a time extension, the council reviews the request and approves it if appropriate. A written response stating the outcome of the extension request must go to the youth. If approved, the notification must be attached to the youth’sEagle/Summit/Quartermaster rank application. For Eagle, the extension must not exceed 3 months from the youth’s 18thbirthday; for Summit/Quartermaster, the extension must not exceed 3 months from the youth’s 21st birthday.   4. Upon turning 18, the Scout must submit a completed adult application and successfully complete YPT; their participant code will now be UP for SBSA or VP for Venturing and Sea Scouting.5. Extension requests for more than 3 months beyond the youth’s18th/21st birthday must be sent to the National Service Center following the process outlined in the GTA. 

Note: A “month” in BSA advancement is defined as a day from one month to the next. For example, March 5 to April 5.

The authority for councils to grant extensions is temporary, lasting only through Sept. 30, 2020. 

Q: If youth have already received an extension, can they request additional time due to COVID-19?

A: ​Yes. Council Scout executives may grant extensions, or delegate authority to the Council Advancement Committee to grant extensions under the limitations listed above.

Q: ​What should be done while an extension request is being considered? 

A: Youth should continue to work on advancement in so far as they are able—e.g., independently, or over the phone or videoconference—and at Scouting activities once they resume.

Q: ​Are extensions required when an Eagle/Summit/Quartermaster board of review must be delayed?

A: ​No. Councils may grant Eagle/Summit/Quartermaster boards of review up to six months after the youth’s 18th/21st birthday. See GTA Topic 8.0.3.1, “Eagle Scout Board of Review Beyond the 18th Birthday.” 

See also, GTA Topic 8.0.1.6, “Boards of Review Through Videoconferencing.”

Q: Are electronic or digital signatures acceptable for rank advancement or for the Eagle/Summit/Quartermaster packets/applications?

A: Yes. Electronic or digital signatures will be accepted through September 30, 2020.

Q: How can a youth continue to work on advancement requirements if they don’t have internet or high-speed internet for videoconferencing?


A: Youth may take a picture of their completed activity/requirement and share the work with unit leaders. In keeping with Youth Protection Training policies, all communications from youth should be sent to at least two adults. Parents or guardians may send advancement work on behalf of their child. 

3/19/20

Vienna’s Girls Troop 987 Starts a “New Scout Quest”

by

New Tenderfoot Scouts Annalise S., Abby E., and Katie H.

When the five girls of troop 987 first met, they each decided that they needed to be the Senior Patrol Leader. (We put that decision off for a bit.) One thing they did agree on was that they all wanted to be the nation’s first female Eagle Scout. I carefully discussed the difficulties with such a task, but they were undaunted. I explained this was something that would require pure dedication and a lot of luck, but our boy troop’s philosophy has always been, “Scout led… no matter what”, so I did what any Scout leader would have done, and turned to the experts.

Five years ago, Jeffrey H., one of our Eagle Scouts, commented that it was impractical to make scouts wait for summer camp to take part in a program that could easily be completed at home. I told him if he saw a problem in the world, he should work to fix it. His answer was to create our New Scout Quest (NSQ) program, which he then led until his election to Senior Patrol Leader. The basis for his program was that if Scouts were busy at meetings and ranked up faster, then they would stay active in the program. He began creating and scheduling lessons based on a belief that if the Scouts knew what was planned, they would be more likely to attend the meetings and continue Scouting. The following year we had a 95% retention rate. He trained the instructors in this method, and when he turned 18 in October, we had a fully functional program for new Scouts.

So when the girls talked about their objectives, three of my Scouts came to mind immediately. We would need Jeffrey, of course, but we would also need the instructors, Alex G. and Bill G. who had spent the last 4 years leading and refining the course. All three were more than excited to help, although one had to join as an adult leader. They began preparations for this new program. The girls this year are an exciting and unique chance to show just how dynamic this program is. Three of the five have older brothers who are Eagle Scouts. One has an older brother who is a 13 year old Life Scout, and one will be the first Eagle Scout in her family! They have been watching their brothers have a great time at scouting and have waited for their chance to shine.

As they joined, they each received a Scout handbook. They worked for a couple of weeks to learn the requirements for Scout, and then met on February 1st to kick off Family Scouting and become the first girls to attend a Scoutmaster conference and receive the Scout rank. They attended their first camp out in February (these girls are tough!) and three of them (Annalise S., Abby E., and Katie H.) attained the rank of Tenderfoot a few days ago. The other two – Victoria S. and Sarah J. – will receive it next week at our next meeting.

As a Scoutmaster I have seen more than a hundred scouts attend our NSQ program. Almost all of them are 11. I have noticed that the girls are less distracted and learn the book skills a great deal faster than the boys. The boys are more adept at the physical skills such as fire building and orienteering. This is an observation that may help your program adapt to the different needs of a girls program. It is amazing to watch history be made with a group of girls who are so driven to be great Scouts.