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Scouts meet on a weekly basis to work on merit badge activities, plan future campouts, celebrate special events, etc. The Scouts themselves are encouraged to run their own Troop, and much of the business and fun of Scouting occurs during Troop meetings. The Senior Patrol Leader is responsible for running Troop meetings with the aid and guidance of the Scoutmaster. The agenda for each meeting will vary, but will always begin with an opening flag ceremony and the Pledge of Allegiance, and always end with a closing flag ceremony and a rendition of Scout Vespers. Troop meetings are held every Tuesday from 7:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. whenever school is in session. Most Troop meetings are held in the St. Andrew West church in Chaska, MN. On those occasions when the church is not available, another location will be chosen and communicated to the Scouts. The Troop understands that other activities such as homework, sports, concerts, etc., can occasionally conflict with attending Troop meetings. During the summer months, Troop meetings are suspended but Troop activities such as campouts and merit badge activities do still occur.
The Patrol Leaders' Council (PLC) is composed of the Patrol Leaders and Assistant Patrol Leaders, as well as all elected Scout Leaders including the Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Quartermaster, Scribe, Historian, Librarian, and Chaplain's Aide. (See Scout Leadership for more information on each position.) The Senior Patrol Leader is responsible for running PLC meetings. The PLC meets once a month to plan the activities for the upcoming months.
The Parent Committee is responsible for supporting the Troop program and ensuring its smooth operation. They are an invaluable way for parents to get to know other families within the Troop and stay in touch with Troop activities. Parent Committee meetings occur once a month, usually at the same time as PLC meetings, and all parents are welcome and encouraged to attend. Items discussed include: upcoming activities, campouts and events; review and approval of Troop expenses; and operational motions that must be voted by majority to be enacted. Parent Committee meetings are organized and run by the Committee Chairperson. The Scoutmaster attends in an advisory role but technically is not part of the Committee.
Scouts must participate in a Board of Review each time they advance in rank. A Board of Review consists of at least three adult leaders, and provides an opportunity to assess the Scout's initiative, Spirit, and readiness for the next rank. It is not a testing of requirements already satisfied. The review also offers the Scouts a chance to voice any concerns or ideas they may have that could improve the Troop and its programs. Reviews are best when the Scout and adults are able to sustain a real conversation about the Troop and the Scout's place within it. For that reason, Scouts should be prepared to openly discuss what they both enjoy and dislike about the Troop. Boards of Review are schedule as needed, usually a week or two before a Court of Honor.
Courts of Honor are held every quarter, and are the times when all rank advancements, merit badge achievements, and special awards are recognized and delivered to the Scouts. Courts of Honor are a more formal type of meeting, and it is especially important for parents to attend to support their sons. It is also a chance for parents who are not involved with the Parents Committee to learn about what the Troop has done recently, as well as about upcoming Troop events. Scouts are expected to be in full Class A uniforms including merit badge sashes, and should attend even if they are not receiving any awards. |
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