Scoutmaster Conferences
A Scoutmaster Conference is required for each rank advancement. A conference may also be requested by the Scout or required by the Scoutmaster at any time if they need to talk.
A Scoutmaster Conference is simply a visit between the Scoutmaster and a Scout. During the conference, the two can discuss the Scout’s ambitions, set goals, review the Scout’s participation in the troop, and explore his understanding and practice of the ideals of Scouting. The conference gives the Scoutmaster an opportunity to get feedback on the program and address any challenges the Scout is facing.
Conferences are conducted at troop meetings or during outdoor activities. A conference is a private discussion between the Scoutmaster and a Scout, but it must be held within view of other people, in accordance with the Scouting America’s Youth Protection policy.
If your conference is for rank advancement, please request it well ahead of your board of review. For most ranks the conference will take about 15 minutes. Eagle rank conferences usually take 30 minutes or more.
Ask to talk at any time, for any reason.
Board of Review
A Board of Review is required for each rank advancement after Scout. They are conducted by 3-6 members of the parent committee.
The Board of Review exists to determine the quality of the Scout’s experience and decide whether the requirements to achieve the Scout’s next rank have been fulfilled. It is not, notes Scouts BSA national program chair Angelique Minett, a job interview, retest or examination, or any other kind of challenge of the Scout’s knowledge. “It should be a relaxed, pleasant atmosphere,” Minett said during the most recent episode of #TroopTalkLive. “You shouldn't be sitting there trying to grill the Scout.” You can watch our entire discussion below or read on for the details..
Conferences are conducted at troop meetings or during outdoor activities. A conference is a private discussion between the Scoutmaster and a Scout, but it must be held within view of other people, in accordance with the Scouting America’s Youth Protection policy.
For most ranks the conference will take about 15 minutes. Eagle rank conferences usually take 30 minutes or more.