Question: How fast will my Scout advance and how involved should I be in their advancement?
Answer: Scouts are encouraged to learn skills and advance in ranks at their own pace, taking responsibility for their success. This helps build character, which is a key goal of Scouting. Some Eagle Scouts take longer than four years to reach their rank, but they learn to take charge of their own journey. The skills they acquire will help them become good citizens. While older Scouts tend to enjoy the process and may not rush, younger Scouts can feel discouraged if they don’t advance quickly. It’s recommended that new Scouts aim for Second Class rank around their first year in the Troop and earn some merit badges to stay engaged. For older Scouts, watch for stagnation if they remain at the same rank for over a year.
Question: When will my child be recognized for their achievements?
Answer: Generally, Scouts are awarded rank advancements 1-2 weeks after earning them and merit badges are awarded at Courts of Honor held four times per year. The Court of Honor is a ceremony where the advancement and accomplishments made by the Scouts can be recognized. All members and families are invited to attend.
Question: How often and where do you go camping?
Answer: Our camping trips occur monthly, usually towards the middle of the month. We explore various locations, but our out-of-state excursions are limited to once a year. When we venture beyond Ohio, we aim for states bordering it. Within Ohio, we aim to visit a diverse range of campsites, each drive approximately one to two hours. We leave our church around 6 o’clock PM on Friday, and return to the church around 9 and 10 AM on Sunday.
Question: What if my child has a scheduling conflict?
Answer: From time to time, scheduling conflicts will arise. The Troop has always held schoolwork, religious education and family responsibilities as higher priorities than Scouting. Be assured there is no penalty for an absence from any meeting. If a Scout is unable to attend a Troop meeting, or make some other Troop function due to such a conflict, it is expected that the Scout will contact their Patrol Leader and let them know. This is a responsibility of the Scout and not of their parent.
Troop 385 