Troop 51 Parent Handbook

October, 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this Troop Parent Handbook is to communicate Boy Scouts of America (BSA) policies and Troop 51 guidelines on how the Troop functions, and how specific issues are handled by the Troop. This material is collected from numerous BSA sources. These sources take precedence over this handbook. The Troop Committee will review and approve this Handbook on an annual basis.

Mission StatementTo organize, develop and teach a boy-run program that fosters creativity, leadership, fun, respect, and also adheres to the Boy Scout Oath and Law.

Committee LeadershipThe Troop Committee is comprised of volunteers and provides the overall administrative management of the Troop. These administrative functions include approving the Troop’s budget, fundraisers, By-Law/Handbook changes, all yearly activities, and all subsequent changes. All interested parents or guardians are welcome to attend the Committee meeting. Meetings are usually held on the first Monday of every month, at Trinity Lutheran Church at 7:00 p.m. The Troop 51 Committee consists of the following individuals:

ChairpersonCharter Organization Representative (COR) (Non-voting member)Scoutmaster (Non-voting member)Committee Member- TreasurerCommittee Member- SecretaryCommittee Member- AdvancementCommittee Member- Events CoordinatorCommittee Member- QuartermasterCommittee Member- Board of ReviewCommittee Member- Fundraising CoordinatorCommittee Members At Large

Troop LeadershipThe Troop Leadership plans and runs the weekly Troop meetings. The Patrol Leaders’ Council, consisting of the Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster(s), Junior Assistant Scoutmaster(s), the Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader and Patrol Leaders, meets once a month to plan the Troop’s activities. In keeping with a boy-run organization, adult attendance and participation should be kept to a minimum as to not interfere with the decision process, but to only provide general guidance. Voting members and other attendees are listed below.

ScoutmasterAssistant Scoutmaster(s)Junior Assistant Scoutmaster(s)Senior Patrol Leader (voting member)Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (voting member)Patrol Leaders (voting members)Assistant Patrol Leader(s) (voting members if sitting in for Patrol Leader)

Troop Guide (voting member)Den ChiefWarrant Officers: Quartermaster, Scribe, Chaplain’s Aide, Historian, Librarian, Bugler

Parents, relatives, and guardian who are in leadership positions shall not perform in Scoutmaster Conferences, Eagle Scout project reviews, and Boards of reviews involving their sons or relatives.

Boy LeadershipIf a boy is elected to a position of troop leadership then he must make a commitment to attend at least 75% of the troop meetings and 75% of the outdoor activities. If he does not attend 75% of the functions, then he may be replaced in his elected position at the Scoutmaster’s discretion. Scouts may be excused from activities if approved by the Scoutmaster. Such excuses include, but are not limited to, school activities, family emergency, vacation travel, etc. All newly elected youth leaders and prospective leaders will be trained and provided the tools necessary to succeed.

TrainingBSA policies require all adult leaders to be trained to certain minimum levels. All Troop 51 registered adult leaders will at a minimum be trained to their position as required by Council. All adults must take Youth Protection training prior to registration, with re-training every two years. Adults who have not completed the training cannot be registered during the re-chartering process. All adult leader applications must be accompanied with proof of training before they can be processed.

Supporting Training: The Troop Committee Chairman and Scoutmaster will ensure all activities will be led by properly trained adult leaders. Some examples of activity specific training courses that must be taken into account when planning and executing Scout activities are: Safe Swim Defense, Safety Afloat, and Climb on Safely. The Council now requires a registered adult trained in Outdoor Leadership Skills to attend all outdoor activities (campout, hikes, etc.).

All fees incurred for required training will be paid for by the troop.

Meetings Meetings are held every Thursday from 7:00 to 8:00 PM in the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Camp Hill, PA, and the sponsoring organization for Troop 51. Your son will need a Scout Handbook, paper and pencil for every meeting. Remember he is now responsible. He needs to write down dates and times of events and things he may need for each meeting. He needs to act in a responsible manner. The Senior Patrol Leader is the leader of the troop, and runs the troop meetings. Meetings are not held on Thanksgiving, during the Christmas/New Year Holidays, and during the week of summer camp. If other meetings are cancelled, the Scouts will be notified in advance.

Uniforms

The Scout needs to wear a Class A uniform for these meetings. This is a long or short sleeve Boy Scout uniform shirt, Boy Scout shorts or pants, Boy Scout belt and buckle, Boy Scout socks, slide and troop issued neckerchief (see Troop 51 Uniform Dress Code for more details). The Class A uniform is required from the start of the school year until the end of the school year, unless otherwise specified. A Class B uniform, consisting of a Troop 51 red t-shirt or another Boy Scout Camp T-shirt, Boy Scout shorts or pants, a Boy Scout belt and Boy Scout socks, can be worn during the summer.

Board of Review is currently held on the third Thursday of the month. When a Scout is ready to advance to the next level, a Board of Review consisting of Committee Members meets and interviews the Scout.

Troop Activities Visit the website www.bsa-troop51.org for updated information about the troop activities. Troop 51 participates in numerous activities in addition to the regular meetings. Almost every month the troop goes on a weekend camping trip usually leaving on Friday at approximately 5:00 PM and returning Sunday at approximately 12:00 PM. Every year the troop attends numerous Council and out of Council events (Klondike, Beaver Day, Camporees, etc.) and usually Hidden Valley Scout Reservation in December. Every summer, they attend a weeklong Boy Scout camp.

Other scouting activities include, but are not limited to, participation in Scout Sunday ceremonies at the Trinity Lutheran Church held in February. As part of this program, the Scouts are expected to participate in the services (e.g. greeters, ushers and lectors). We encourage parents to attend and show their support for our sponsoring organization. At least two Court of Honor (COH) award ceremonies are held each year and are an opportunity for Scouts to be presented awards and parents to see what the troop has done in the past months. The troop also participates in the local Camp Hill Memorial Day Parade and Graveside Flag Services.

Dues and FeesThe Troop leadership is keenly aware of the financial impact that comes with an active Scout’s participation in the BSA. There are several ways to pay for the activities the Scout attends. These include, but are not limited to: dues, fees, fundraisers and donations. The Troop pays the registration and insurance costs for those leaders who are actively involved in Troop operations, since they are already donating their time, and often funds as well.

Dues: The Troop charges an annual dues amount. The amount is stable and does not often change. Dues covers all registration costs, Boys Life subscription, awards, initial neckerchief, BSA training and helps subsidizes Troop funded events (e.g. Courts of Honor, etc.). The troop will send out a notice with the dues amount and when they are due each year. An annual registration form must be completed with demonstrates the Scout’s commitment to recharter. This form also includes useful information that is used to update the troop’s TroopMaster database. This includes addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, etc. The form also adds the requirement that the parents and Scouts read Troop 51’s Parent and Scout Handbooks.

Fees: Scouts, Scouters and parents pay fees when they participate in Troop activities like campouts, museum trips, summer camp, etc. This includes entrance fees, campsite fees, food, and transportation costs.

Fundraisers: Fundraisers are excellent ways to have others support the Scouts’ involvement in Troop activities. There are three types of fundraisers. The first involves the Scout’s labor and all profits go directly to the Troop to provide additional operating funds, to invest in Troop equipment (tents, stoves, etc.), and subsidize Troop activities. All Scouts are expected to attend and support these Troop fundraisers. They are well advertised, so there is no mistaking these from the other categories. The second type of fundraiser is those involve donations from commercial activities, but require some sort of financial payment (e.g. restaurant matching, sub sandwich sales). The Scouts and their families are encouraged, to participate in these fundraising events. The third type is that which contribute directly to the Scout’s Account. These fundraisers include Christmas wreath sales, participating in the Council led popcorn sales program, and food discount card program, etc.

Scout Accounts: Are a Scout’s savings account that is held and maintained by the Troop. They are accounted for separately from normal Troop operating funds. These funds can be used at the Scout’s discretion to fund Troop outings, campouts, summer camp, BSA related training (to include CPR, First Aid, etc.), OA activities, dues, etc. There is no time limit when the Scout may use the funds while they are still registered with Troop 51. If the Scout transfers to another Troop, the funds will be remitted directly to the gaining Troop. There is a one year time requirement to request these funds. After one year or if the Scout resigns from BSA, the funds will be transferred to the Troop operating fund. Those Scouts who turn 18, and are active as an adult leader with the troop have one year to use their existing Scout account funds. After one year the funds will be transferred to the Troop operating fund. All unused funds for those Scouts attaining the rank of Eagle Scout shall be refunded after they turn 18

Campership:Campership is financial aid for those Scouts who cannot afford or have difficulty affording the fees to go to summer camp, Troop activities, Troop dues, etc. The Council can subsidize some summer camp dues when the troop attends summer camp within NBOF Council. Troop 51 and Trinity Lutheran Church can provide Campership funds for deserving Scouts. Council Campership requests are submitted directly to and approved by the New Birth of Freedom Council. The Troop Committee approves all internal Troop 51 Campership requests, and Trinity approves any funding request they provide. Advance notification is required to process any such requests prior to the event. Campership requests and information will be closely held as to not cause any embarrassment to the Scout or the Scout’s family. The objective is to allow the Scout to participate in Troop Activities.

Camperships can be either fully or partially funded. The circumstances of all requests are independent of each other, however, the following guidelines/questions will pertain to each situation: Is the Scout active in the Troop? Does the Scout aggressively participate in Troop and Scout fundraising opportunities? (This is a requirement)Does the Scout demonstrate the appropriate level of Scout Spirit?

Have the detailed circumstances of the situation been adequately described to the Troop Committee?Do the Troop finances allow for the awarding of Campership funds?

Troop Activity Permission SlipEach activity requires that a parent or legal guardian sign a permission slip. These slips are available on the troop website, and will also be available to scouts prior to the activity during the troop meetings. These slips and any registration fees must be returned by the date specified on the form in order to assure the proper time is allowed for planning, purchasing of food, reservations, etc.

Medical FormsMedical forms are maintained by the adult Troop Quartermaster. The Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters shall be made aware of any boys with medical, physical, or mental limitations (who may require some sort of assistance). They shall also be made aware of all medications. Medications shall not be administered by the Scout. Parents and Adult Leaders can administer medication. Scouts cannot self-medicate with the exceptions of epipens, inhalers, etc. Medications will be turned in to the Adult Leadership prior to extended Troop activities (campouts, day trips, etc.) unless administered by a parent.

BSA medical forms must be completed annually. They are required of Scouts and Scouts to participate on troop activities (not just summer camp). Currently the medical forms require a signature from health care provider.

Vehicle/License RegistrationTrip plans require the listing of all vehicles used to transport Scouts. Parents should provide the Committee Chair with vehicle information to include: vehicle make, model, and confirmation that minimum state insurance requirements are met. This will expedite the completion of the Trip Planning documents. Pennsylvania state minimum insurance requirements meet BSA requirements.

Trip Planning Each activity must have a Council approved Trip Plans if specific council requirements are met (out of council trips, swimming, boating, back country, etc. activities). This also ensures Council is aware of and approves the Troop activities and that all scouts are covered by the BSA’s insurance. Tour plans are not required for most in council trips.

Parental HelpParents are always needed to take the boys to and from the trips. This is one easy way to help support the troop.

Unlike Cub Scouts, the boys work on their own badges and go through the advancement process on their own. They are responsible for making arrangements with the merit badge counselors,

for completing the requirements and for advancement review. A list of counselors is available to every Scout. Remember, in order for the troop to continue to enjoy the success it has in the past, ALL parents need to help. Parents are welcome to attend all Troop activities, camping trips, and committee meetings. Do not wait to be asked for help. The adult leaders need your help!

Troop 51 2014 Registration and Re-charter Information

The purpose of this form is to confirm your son’s involvement in the Boy Scouts of America as a member of Troop 51 for 2014. The information entered below will be used to update Troop 51 records.

The Troop dues for 2014 have increased to $85 per Scout. This is the first increase in over five years and is a direct result of increased registration fees required by national.

Please fill out the below items and turn in by Thursday, November 14th. Please include a check for $85. Your son(s) will not be re-registered without completing this form and arranging for payment of troop dues.

Scout name: ___________________________________________________________________

Scout Address: _________________________________________________________________

Home phone number: _________________________ Cell number: _____________________

Scout e-mail address: ____________________________________________________________

Father’s names: _________________________________________________________________

Father’s address: ________________________________________________________________

Father’s phone number: ______________________________ Cell: ________________________

Father’s e-mail address: ___________________________________________________________

Mother’s names: _________________________________________________________________

Mother’s address: ________________________________________________________________

Mother’s phone number: ______________________________ Cell: ________________________

Mother’s e-mail address: ___________________________________________________________

Remarks: ________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Parent: I have the read the Parent’s Troop Handbook listed on the troop website

Signature/Date____________________________________________________________________

Scout: I have read the Scout’s Troop Handbook listed on the troop website Signature/Date____________________________________________________________________

Paid: Yes/No Date received: _____________Check number: ___________

Troop 51 Discipline Policy(Committee Approved November, 2011)

As a Scout or Scouter (a Scouter is defined as an adult registered with BSA) in Troop 51 it is important that we strive as individuals to teach, live up to and foster the belief in the Scout Law, Oath, Motto and Slogan, which was written by the founder of the Boy Scouts, Lord Robert Baden Powell in 1908. Trinity Lutheran Church in Camp Hill has supported and helped Troop 51 to provide a strong continuous Scouting Program for the youth of our community from 1912 to 1922 and since 1924. In order to better guide our Scouts, and help their parents or legal guardian(s) to understand that our program is built on a set of strong ideals, moral convictions, and expectations; Troop 51 has deemed it important to set guidelines for a Scout or Scouter’s behavior. It is Troop 51’s desire that the Scout’s experience be fun, safe, educational, and full of adventure; it is therefore important to emphasize that a Scout’s good behavior will allow everyone participating to have this opportunity. It is likewise important to state that a Scout’s or Scouter’s poor behavior or judgment could not only impact the Scout or Scouter, but others as well. It is for this reason that the leadership of Troop 51 has adopted the following policy.

Scouts:1. Code of Conduct

a. All Scouts are expected to subscribe to the Scout Oath and Law and act within these guidelines. The Scoutmaster or designated Adult Leader will notify the Scout when their behavior is outside of these guidelines.

b. All Scouts are expected to follow the direction of the Scoutmaster, designated Adult Leaders and youth leadership

c. All Scouts are responsible to maintain a safe scouting environment at all Troop activities. The Scoutmaster or designated Adult Leader will notify the Scout when that Scout is acting in an unsafe manner.

d. Scout safety and protection are the responsibility of the Scoutmaster or designated Adult Leader. No Scout shall leave a Troop function or engage in hazardous activities (e.g., rock climbing, swimming, caving, etc.) without the expressed permission of the Scoutmaster or designated Adult Leader.

e. Scouts must respect all Troop, public, and private property when at a Scout function. Damage, destruction or loss to others’ property by a Scout or group of Scouts is the financial responsibility of the Scout(s) and their parent or legal guardian.

f. Troop 51 operates within BSA’s “Two-Deep” leadership principle. Two leaders must be present for all Troop meetings and outings. Scouts should not be alone with or tent with the Scoutmaster or an Adult Leader (with the exception of the Scout’s parent or legal guardian). Two scouts or a second adult must be present for a meeting with a Merit Badge Counselor. A parent can be one of the adults.

2. Discipline Procedurea. Warning

i. In the event of a minor infraction of the “Disciplinary Policy” (as interpreted by the Scoutmaster or Adult Leader in charge at the time of the infraction), the Scout will be officially notified by an adult leader that he has committed an act or behaved in a manner that warrants discipline. He will be warned of his inappropriate behavior and made aware that further inappropriate actions will lead to increased levels of

discipline, including suspension or dismissal from Troop 51. It is important that the Scout understand why his behavior was inappropriate and how his actions could affect or harm themselves or others. Youth leadership should inform the Scoutmaster or adult leadership when a Scout has exhibited behavior that might warrant discipline. Youth leadership should report all infractions from the Patrol Leaders through the Senior Patrol Leader or Assistant Senior Patrol Leader to the Scoutmaster or adult leadership.

b. Level Onei. If additional disciplinary offenses occur within a three-month period or the

Scoutmaster or responsible adult feels that the offense is more severe:1. The Scoutmaster or leaders in charge will notify the Scout’s parents, if the Scout

is to be sent home from the meeting, event or trip where the infraction occurred. 2. The Scoutmaster or leaders in charge will notify the scout that his actions warrant

disciplinary action and that as a result of his behavior, a meeting will be convened with the scout and his parent(s) or legal guardian(s) to discuss the discipline problems and inform them that this behavior will not be tolerated. The Scoutmaster and the leader initiating the disciplinary meeting will be present.

3. The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) may then be required to attend the next Scout activity(s) with their Scout, in order for the Scout to participate. The Scoutmaster will determine the duration of parent participation.

4. The Troop Committee Chairman must be notified verbally by the Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster or leader in charge that a disciplinary action has occurred for the inclusion in the next Troop Committee Meeting’s Minutes.

c. Level Twoi. In the event that another incident occurs or a severe disciplinary offense occurs, it

will be treated as a “Level Two” offense. Depending on the severity of the offense a Scout will be suspended from all Troop 51 activities and meetings for a period of two to six months. A scout receiving a “Level Two” disciplinary action will be barred from holding Youth Leadership positions until the second semi-annual election cycle and will be barred from participating in High Adventure trips for one year from the date of suspension. As a result of a “Level Two” disciplinary action, the following steps will be taken:1. The Troop Committee Chairman will be notified by the Scoutmaster, Assistant

Scoutmaster or leader in charge in writing that a “Level Two” Disciplinary action has been taken. The report will include the name(s) of the Scout(s), the date, the infraction and the disciplinary action that resulted to be recorded in the next Troop Committee Meeting’s minutes.

2. The Scoutmaster will notify the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and the Scout that a “Level Two” offense has occurred.

3. The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and the Scout must appear before the Troop Committee Chairman, Scoutmaster and other involved leaders to discuss the situation and disciplinary actions that will occur.

d. Level Threei. A “Level Three” offense will result from repeated disciplinary actions or a severe

disciplinary offense including, but not limited to: molestation, sexual contact, illegal activities, use or possession of alcohol or drugs, or severe physical abuse. A “Level

Three” offense will generally result in expulsion of the Scout from Troop 51. The New Birth of Freedom Council will be notified if required.1. In the case of a “Level Three” offense the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the

Scout will be contacted and immediately required to pick the Scout up from the meeting, event or trip.

2. The Scout is notified and immediately suspended from all Troop 51 activities.3. A “Level Three” disciplinary meeting will be conducted by the Scoutmaster and

Committee Chairman to allow the Scout and his parent(s) or legal guardian(s) to present information that would give reason not to expel the Scout from Troop 51.

4. The Troop Committee Chairman and Scoutmaster will inform the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and Scout of the Troop Committee’s final decision.

Scouters:1. Code of Conduct

a. All Scouters are expected to subscribe to the Scout Oath and Law and act within these guidelines. The Scoutmaster or designated Adult Leader will notify the Scouter when their behavior is outside of these guidelines.

b. All Scouters are expected to follow the direction of the Scoutmaster, designated Adult Leaders, and youth leadership

c. All Scouters are responsible to maintain a safe scouting environment at all Troop activities. The Scoutmaster or designated Adult Leader will notify the Scouter when that Scouter is acting in an unsafe manner.

d. Scouter safety and protection are the responsibility of the Scoutmaster or designated Adult Leader. All Scouters will act responsibly and lead by example. No Scouter shall leave a Troop function or engage in hazardous activities (e.g., rock climbing, swimming, caving, etc.) without the expressed permission of the Scoutmaster or designated Adult Leader.

e. Scouters must respect all Troop, public, and private property when at a Scout function. Damage, destruction or loss to others’ property by a Scouter is the financial responsibility of the Scouter.

f. Troop 51 operates within BSA’s “Two-Deep” leadership principle. Scouters shall remain vigilant to maintain this “Two-Deep” leadership, even when they are not the adult leader in charge. Two adult leaders must be present for all Troop meetings and outings, with one being a registered leader over 21 years of age. Scouters shall not be alone with or tent with Scouts (with the exception if they are the Scout’s parent or legal guardian). Two scouts or a second adult must be present for a meeting with a Merit Badge Counselor. A parent can be one of the adults.

2. Discipline Procedurea. By the general nature of being an adult, the disciplinary results for Scouters are more

severe than for Scouts. All disciplinary matters involving Scouters will be reported in writing to the Charter Organization Representative and presented before the Troop Committee.

b. Warningii. In the event of a minor infraction of the “Disciplinary Policy” (as interpreted by the

Scoutmaster or Adult Leader in charge at the time of the infraction), the Scouter will be officially notified by an adult leader that he or she has committed an act or behaved in a manner that warrants discipline. They will be warned of their

inappropriate behavior and made aware that further inappropriate actions will lead to increased levels of discipline, including suspension, dismissal from Troop 51, and dismissal from BSA as a whole. It is important that the Scouter understands why their behavior was inappropriate and how their actions could affect or harm themselves or others. Youth leadership should inform the Scoutmaster or adult leadership when a Scouter has exhibited behavior that might warrant discipline. Youth leadership should report all infractions from the Patrol Leaders through the Senior Patrol Leader or Assistant Senior Patrol Leader to the Scoutmaster or adult leadership. If the Scoutmaster or adult leadership is the offender, another adult, or parent shall be notified as soon as practical.

c. Level Oneiii. If additional disciplinary offenses occur within a three-month period or the Charter

Organization Representative, Troop Committee Chairman, and Scoutmaster feels that the offense is more severe:1. The Charter Organization Representative, Scoutmaster, or Adult Leader in charge

will determine, depending on the severity of the infraction, whether the Scouter will be sent home from the meeting, event or trip where the infraction occurred.

2. The Scoutmaster or leaders in charge will notify the Scouter that their actions warrant disciplinary action and that as a result of their behavior, a meeting will be convened with the Charter Organization Representative, Troop Committee Chairman, Scoutmaster and the Scouter to discuss the discipline problems and inform them that this behavior will not be tolerated. The Scoutmaster and the leader initiating the disciplinary meeting will be present.

3. The Troop Committee Chairman shall include the disciplinary action in the next Troop Committee Meeting’s Minutes.

d. Level Twoiv. In the event that another incident occurs or a severe disciplinary offense occurs, it

will be treated as a “Level Two” offense. Depending on the severity of the offense a Scouter will be suspended from all Troop 51 activities and meetings for a period of six months. A Scouter receiving a “Level Two” disciplinary action will be barred from holding any Troop position which by definition requires interaction with the youth for six months. This includes weekly troop meetings, troop activities, summer camp and High Adventure trips for one year from the date of suspension. As a result of a “Level Two” disciplinary action, the following steps will be taken:1. A second meeting with the Charter Organization Representative, Troop

Committee Chairman, Scoutmaster and the Scouter to discuss the discipline problems and inform them that this behavior will not be tolerated. The Scoutmaster and the leader initiating the disciplinary meeting will be present.

2. The Scouter will be given a final warning that any additional offense will result in expulsion from Troop 51.

e. Level Threea. A “Level Three” offense will result from repeated disciplinary actions or a severe

disciplinary offense including, but not limited to: molestation, sexual contact, illegal activities, use or possession of alcohol or drugs, or severe physical abuse. A “Level Three” offense will generally result in expulsion of the Scout from Troop 51 and mandatory reporting to the New Birth of Freedom Council.

a. In the case of a “Level Three” offense the Scouter (s) will immediately depart the meeting, event or trip.

b. The Scouter is immediately suspended from all Troop 51 activities.c. A “Level Three” disciplinary meeting will be conducted by the Scoutmaster and

Committee Chairman to allow the Scouter to present information that would give reason not to expel the Scouter from Troop 51.

The Charter Organization Representative, Committee Chairman and Scoutmaster will inform the Scouter of the Charter Organization’s final decision.

Electronics PolicyRecognizing the increase of electronic usage and the potential benefits of electronic devices Troop 51 is adopting the following policy to regulate the use of electronics. It is a key tenet of scouting to spend time outdoors free from the distracting nature of today’s society.

1. Electronics General.a. Electronics are defined as any device equipped with a battery designed with a

circuit board and considered by the scoutmaster as optional equipment, this includes but not limited to: MP3 players, CD players, DVD players, cell phones, laptops, pagers, radios, portable gaming devices, etc.

b. Electronics are allowed in vehicles during transportation to and from activities subject to the discretion of the driver of the vehicle.

2. Cell Phonesa. Cell Phones are not to be used by scouts except in emergency situationsb. Cell phones are permitted to be in possession of scouts when the troop is in a

public venue other than a scout reservation. c. Cell Phones are to be turned off or silenced at Scout meetings and will remain in

pockets, backpacks, etc.d. Cell phones are to remain in possession of adult leaders during camping trips

except while traveling or at a public locatione. Scouts shall not share their phones with other Scouts except to call their parents

for pick-up.3. Radio’s

a. The SPL or his designee are allowed to carry a radio for emergency weather broadcasts

b. Inappropriate use of the radio will cause confiscation4. Music Players

a. Defined as all devices designed electronically to transmit soundb. Music players are not allowed on camping trips except while traveling to and

from scouting eventsc. Music players are not to be turned on and/or visible at meetings or other scout

activities as noted above5. The scoutmaster shall have the authority at deciding situational rules and regulations.

I have read the Troop 51 By-Laws and fully understand the requirements as documented by my below signature.

Parent of Scout: ___________________________ Date: __________

Scout: ___________________________________ Date: __________