Are you new to Scouting America and or new to Troop 6? We have numerous resources available to assist you!
Check out our Troop 6 Guide for details on Troop 6 and how the Scouting America program is structured. We also have an Event Guide that outlines how to stay current with events and required training and forms to attend outings. For many scouts, this represents the first time they will go on a backpacking adventure. We have a backpacking 101 session we hold with new scouts and we also invite the new scouts on a day trip where the older scouts will backpack overnight to learn and ask questions. The Backpacking with Troop 6 Guide will help you prepare for these exciting new adventures!
What Responsibilities Do Scouts Have?
Scouts are responsible for managing their own progress in Scouting. Expectations include:
- Bringing their Scout book to meetings and getting advancements signed off
- Holding patrol and troop leadership positions
- Planning campout meals, shopping, and cooking
- Packing their own gear for campouts
- Setting up their own tents and equipment
- Signing up for and completing merit badges, then submitting blue cards
- Organizing and participating in service projects, merit badge offerings, and camping trips
What uniform does my scout need?
A: Scouts should have both a Class A (Field Uniform) and a Class B Uniform:
- Class A (Field Uniform): Worn at meetings, flag ceremonies, and formal events. Includes a Scout shirt, olive green bottoms, belt, socks, and shoulder loops.
- Class B Uniform: Worn at campouts, service projects, and merit badge classes. Includes a Troop 6 T-shirt ($10 from the Troop) and Scout shorts.
When and where are the troop meetings held?
A: Meetings are every Monday at 7 PM at Prince of Peace (3641 N. 56th St., Phoenix, AZ 85018). One Monday per month is reserved for PLC meetings (Patrol Leaders only).
Who runs the meetings?
A: Meetings are scout-led, with leadership by the Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) and patrol leaders. There are 8-9 patrols in the troop, each electing its own leaders every six months.
Can parents attend troop meetings?
A: Yes! Parents are welcome and encouraged to attend, especially for new families. Drop-offs are allowed, but please pick up your scout at the end of the meeting, approximately 8:30 PM.
What are Patrol Breakouts?
A: During troop meetings, scouts have Patrol Breakouts to log their completed activities (service, hiking, camping, etc.) in their Scout Handbook. Keeping their book up to date is essential for advancement.
What is a PLC meeting?
A: The Patrol Leader Committee (PLC) Meeting happens once a month. It is attended by patrol leaders (or assistant patrol leaders if the leader is unavailable). Parents are encouraged to attend the Committee Meeting after PLC.
What is a Patrol Advisor?
A: Each patrol has 1-2 adult advisors who help coordinate communication, ensure scouts feel welcome, and sign off on achievements.
Where can I buy the required uniform and handbook?
A: You can purchase uniforms and materials at scoutshop.org. The Scout Handbook (preferably spiral-bound) is also required and should be brought to every meeting.
How Can Parents Be Involved in Scouting?
Parents can support their Scouts by:
- Attending troop and committee meetings
- Participating in campouts and supervising events
- Volunteering in various troop roles
Scouting relies on parent volunteers! There are many ways to help, including:
- Directly with Scouts: Assistant Scoutmaster, Merit Badge Counselor, Patrol Advisor
- Support Roles: Advancement Committee, Fundraising Coordinator, Summer Camp Coordinator, Unit Webmaster
Can Parents Assist with Advancement and Merit Badges?
No, unlike Cub Scouts, parents do not assist their child with advancements or merit badges. Parents cannot sign off on their own child’s advancements, even if they are adult leaders in the troop. Scouts must present their books to a Patrol Advisor, Assistant Scoutmaster, or Scoutmaster for approval. Parents cannot sign off on their scout’s book.
What Training is Required for Parents?
Please see the Event Guide, which outlines how to stay current with events, as well as the required training and forms to attend outings.
- Youth Protection Training (YPT): Required for all adults attending any Scouting events (merit badge classes, campouts, service projects). Must be completed every two years.
- Registered Adult Status: Parents attending campouts must be registered adults with the troop.
Where Can Volunteers Find Training?
New volunteers can complete training through the BSA Online Learning Center at www.my.scouting.org. The site tracks completed courses and provides certificates.
What is TroopMaster, and why is it important?
A: TroopMaster is our website for event registration and troop communication. Scouts and parents receive weekly emails with meeting and event reminders. Scouts must sign up on TroopMaster for all events (except regular meetings) to receive credit for attendance. You can access TroopMaster @ https://tmweb.troopmaster.com/
How do we receive troop updates
A: We use the “Remind” app for text communication. Download the app and use the class code provide by Tracey Powers to join. Parents should select the “parent” role, and scouts should use the “student” role.
Can any adult attend overnight events?
A: As of 2023, only registered BSA adults can attend overnight events (campouts or summer camp). Contact Brad Beebe (charter representative) for registration details.
Are medical forms required for adults?
A: Yes, adults attending overnight events must submit Medical Forms A & B annually. Those attending summer camp must also submit Medical Form C, which requires a physician’s signature.
See the Event Guide, which outlines how to stay current with events and the required training and forms to attend outings.
