Boards of Review

Star and Life

Don't forget the 4 Steps in the Advancement Plan

• A Scout LEARNS
• A Scout is TESTED
• A Scout is REVIEWED
• A Scout is RECOGNIZED

Star and Life Ranks
The Boards of Review for these experienced Scouts will take a slightly different direction than those for the earlier ranks. By this point, the Scout has assumed the primary responsibility for his rank advancement as he has begun to work earnestly on merit badges and community service projects. The questions may require the Scout to dig a little deeper as he connects the values he's learned (while learning the "things" he's learned) with lifelong applications. A better golf score or an understanding of how to figure his handicap is not nearly as important to a Scout who's earned his Golf merit badge as is the appreciation of the game and the love of a sport that he can enjoy into the late years of his life.

Click on the following link for "Good and Bad Approaches to a Board of Review" for some sample techniques to use and some to avoid. Especially focus on the suggestions, comments and sample questions below regarding boards of review for the upper ranks.

Boards of Review—all except for Eagle

“This board of review is made up of at least three and not more than six members of the troop committee. One member serves as chairman, usually the committee member responsible for advancement. Unit leaders, assistant unit leaders, relatives or guardians may not serve as members of a Scout’s board of review.”

“The review is not an examination. The Scout has learned his skill and has been examined. This is a review. The Scout should be asked where he learned his skill, who taught him, and the value he gained from passing this requirement.”

“The board should attempt to determine the Scout’s ideals and goals. The board should make sure that a good standard of performance has been met. A discussion of the Scout Oath and Scout Law is in keeping with the purpose of the review, to make sure the candidate recognizes and understands the value of Scouting in his home, unit, school and community.”

From ADVANCEMENT COMMITTEE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES, page 19-20

More on Boards of Review (Except for Eagle Scouts)

“The board of review is not a time to retest the Scout, but to determine the Scout’s attitude and his acceptance of Scouting ideals. It is also important to review those Scouts who are not advancing. The guidance and care shown could motivate these Scouts to further achievement.”

“Examples of the kinds of questions that might be asked are:

• What do you like most in troop outdoor activities?
• What new things did you do/learn on your latest campout/service project/troop meeting?
• What did you learn/feel in giving service to others?
• Why is being a Boy Scout important to you?
• What are your goals in Scouting?
• How will fulfilling requirement number ____ help you?

These types of questions will help the Scout to see the value and practical application of his efforts.”