Boards of Review

The Board of Review is an important step in the Boy Scout advancement program.  This is the time when a Scout presents himself before a small number of leaders (no fewer than 3 but no more than 6) who give him the chance to explain how he has grown and matured through his advancement work.  A wise Scout Advancement Chairman will NEVER let a Board of Review become and "inquisition" because this is NOT at time for "retesting" a Scout.

The Four Steps to Advancement

1. The Scout LEARNS (through his personal study and through instruction of his merit badge counselor, camp staff member, etc.
2. The Scout is TESTED (through his final meeting with the merit badge counselor who is the one that assures he understands the material)
3. The Scout is REVIEWED (by a Board of Review at the troop level)
4. The Scout is RECOGNIZED (at a Court of Honor, at a troop meeting, or other appropriate venue).

The Troop Board of Review should be held regularly and should meet with EVERY Scout on a regular basis--even those Scouts who are not ready to advance.  Likewise, Courts of Honor should be convened at least 3 times a year but 4 times a year (once a quarter) is better.

How to Conduct a Board of Review

The role of the Board of Review members and the atmosphere that should be present are well described in the Scoutmaster's Handbook, the Troop Committee Guidebook and the BSA Advancement Guidelines.  But, you can clcik on the following link for a quick, one-page summary of BOARD OF REVIEW CONCEPTS.  This document provides descriptions of Boards of Review for various ranks, sample questions or thoughts that should be considered, and even addresses how to conduct a Board of Review for a Scout who is not advancing (and WHY you should do it!).