Scouting provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps in overcoming them through the advancement method. Scouts in troops plan their advancement and progress at their own pace as they meet each challenge. The Scout is rewarded for each achievement, which helps them gain self-confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a Scout grow in self-reliance and in the ability to help others.
Troop Advancement Resources
SHAC Merit Badge Policy
In accordance with the Guide to Advancement (GTA; p. 52, 7.0.4.12), the Sam Houston Area Council (SHAC) Advancement and Recognitions Committee has established an online merit badge policy for SHAC Scouts.
“Merit badges are meant to be a personal activity, involving real interaction between a Scout and an enthusiastic expert in the subject at hand. Group instruction, online meetings, etc., may, depending on the implementation dilute the value of this experience.” (GTA, p. 52, 7.0.4.12)
SHAC is fortunate to have over 2,000 registered merit badge counselors available to the Scouts. Further, over the past two years, every Eagle Scout-required badge and all but five of the 127 elective merit badges have been offered at council or district advancement events. As such, the need for online merit badge opportunities is minimal.
- All merit badge offerings, including online classes, that charge a fee, must have an executed Memorandum of Understanding with SHAC.
- SHAC Scouts may only utilize online merit badge programs offered by merit badge counselors registered in SHAC or geographically adjacent councils with Scoutmaster approval.
- Online merit badge offerings from councils outside these geographic areas are not permitted.
- Online merit badge offerings may only be utilized when it can be confirmed by a Scoutmaster, their designee, or parent that the merit badge counselor is currently registered as a merit badge counselor and has current Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT) by connecting the merit badge counselor to the Scout in Scoutbook Plus. It is recommended that this occurs during or shortly after the required pre-badge discussion between the Scout and Scoutmaster before starting the badge. If it is not possible to confirm registration and SYT status, the online offering may not be utilized.
- It is recommended that online merit badge class utilization be limited to ensure Scouts get the maximum benefit from the intended interpersonal merit badge experience.
The Guide to Advancement also notes:
- Only one merit badge at a time is to be covered in an online session. Scouts should be focused on one merit badge at a time. It is exceedingly rare for the requirements of two merit badges to "match up exactly and have the same intent" (GTA, p.24, 4.2.3.6), and some merit badges explicitly state that work for another merit badge may not be used.
- Before attending any merit badge opportunity, "a Scout must meet with their unit leader or their delegate … this meeting is a required part of the merit badge process, and it should be documented … in Scoutbook Plus or other method.” (GTA, p.41, 7.0.0.3).
⇒ If there are any questions, please contact the Advancement and Recognitions Committee.
⇒ Sign up to be notified about Merit Badge Opportunities
⇒ Request a merit badge class to be offered.
Special Opportunities for Scouts in Troops
In addition to rank requirements and merit badges, Scouts may earn a number of other badges and awards.
Hiking Awards
Conservation Awards
Aquatic Emblems
Other Awards and Emblems
Contacts
For additional information, contact your district advancement chair.