First Class by June

The goal of the Troop Committee and the Leaders of Troop 157 is to have all our scouts attain the rank of first class by the June Court of Honor. With good attendance at Troop Meetings and Activities this is a very realistic goal. While the ranks of Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class are awarded in order, scouts may work on the requirements for these three ranks simultaneously. These three ranks cover the core scouting skills.

Key points in attaining the rank of First Class:

1) Scouts need to participate in 10 Troop Activities (5 for Second Class) since joining the Troop, excluding Troop Meetings. It is important to participate in as many activities as possible; many outdoor requirements can’t be done at the Troop Meetings. Also, the 10 activities requirement is almost always the hardest and the last passed.

2) Three of these activities need to include camping overnight (one for each rank); since many of our winter trip include cabin and “condo” trips, it is important to take advantage of the camping trips early in the year.

3) Orienteering is offered by the Troop once each year so it is important to attend this event; scheduled for October 30 this year.

4) New swimming requirements are harder to pass on your own and for the troop to repeat; again, try to make it when the Troop schedules this activity (probably in the winter or spring).

5) New cooking requirements include menu planning and food procurement, as well as functioning as head cook. Scouts and parents are encouraged to sign-up for a trip of their choice with the Troop Leaders.

6) Community Service is required for each rank advancement and is stressed by Troop 157. Participation in the Eagle Projects of the older scouts and the troop service events is very important.

Good Attendance and Attention at Troop Meetings and Activities will ensure that each scout masters the skills needed to earn the rank of First Class by June