Cub Scout Pack 139 was originally chartered in October 1991 by Partin Elementary School in Oviedo, Florida. On Sunday April 30, 2006 St. Alban's Cathedral was formally presented with the charter for Pack 139. Members of Pack 139 continue to serve the Oviedo area through St. Alban's Cathedral and Partin Elementary School.

Current membership in the pack is of boys grades first through fifth grade, approximately 60 boys, plus their parents and siblings. Ours is a high-quality, family-friendly pack as evidenced by earning several Boy Scout Association awards each year, and having a full schedule of fun events throughout the entire year. This is only possible through the high level of parent participation. Every family is expected to do some share of both the den and pack work.

During the school year, we have a pack meeting every month. Dens meet anywhere from one to three times each month. In addition, we have some annual events such as a couple of pack camping trips, a Blue and Gold banquet, a Pinewood Derby, and a Family Fun Fest. Other recent events included a trip to the USS Yorktown in South Carolina, summer camp, bowling, a day at Daytona Lagoon, a trip to Medieval Times, and a Harlem Globetrotters game.

Our pack is funded by two annual fundraisers. In the fall, we sell popcorn, both door to door, and in front of local stores. In the spring, we sell coupons or discounts to local restaurants and other businesses. This money funds awards for the boys, some of the cost of our big annual events, pack meetings, leader training and registration, pack supplies, and much more. The rest of the cost of events is paid by the families that attend.

Pack 139 supports the community in many ways. Two times each year, we pick up trash on a one-mile portion of Lockwood Blvd. between Riverside Park and Oviedo Presbyterian Church. We collect food for the needy in every fall. We also collect toys for needy children at Christmas time. At times, we have done other ad-hoc projects such as collecting clothing and household supplies for hurrican victims, supporting the Girls and Boys Town of Oviedo, and collecting pet food and other items for animal shelters.

Pack Policies - Table of Contents

Section One / General Provisions
1.1 Purpose
1.2 Mission
1.3 Pack Organization
1.4 Pack Meetings
1.5 The Annual Planning Meeting
1.6 Pack Committee Meetings
1.7 Financial Policy
1.8 Uniform Policy and Dress Code

Section Two / Den Operations and Meetings
2.1 General and Administrative
2.2 Leadership
2.3 Attendance
2.4 Den Code of Conduct
2.5 Disruptive Behavior
2.6 Prohibitions
2.7 Complaints and Unresolved Issues
2.8 Withdrawal from Pack 139

Section Three / Responsibilities of Pack Members
3.1 Responsibilities of Scout Parents or Guardians
3.2 Chartered Organization Representative
3.3 Pack Committee Chairperson
3.4
3.5 Assistant Cubmaster
3.6 Pack Secretary
3.7 Treasurer
3.8 Advancement/Awards Coordinator
3.9 Pack Trainer
3.10 Special Events Coordinator
3.11 Den Leaders
3.12 Den Chiefs/WEBELOS Den Chiefs

Section Four / Advancements and Awards
4.1 Goals
4.2 Definitions
4.3 Presentation of Advancements and Awards Policy
4.4 Immediate Recognition and Progress Awards Policy
4.5 Arrow Point Awards Policy
4.6 Academic and Sports Awards Policy
4.7 Awards Reporting Policy
4.8 Awards Financial Policy
4.9 Adult Leader Award Policy
4.10 Special Awards Policy
4.11 Religious Awards Policy
4.12 Pack Graduation Policy

Section Five / Academics and Sports Program
5.1 Purpose
5.2 Academics and Sports Program Basics
5.3 Recognition
5.4 Concepts and Guidelines

SECTION ONE / GENERAL

1.1 Purpose: These Pack Policies define the organization, activities, operations and budget policy that govern Cub Scout Pack 139. These provisions apply to Pack 139 members and to those who participate in our activities.

1.2 Mission: To strengthen families through the nine purposes of Scouting; which are:
· Positively influencing a boy’s character development and encouraging spiritual growth
· Helping boys develop habits and attitudes of good citizenship
· Encouraging good sportsmanship and pride in growing strong in mind and body
· Improving understanding within the family
· Strengthening the ability to get along with other boys and to respect other people
· Fostering a sense of personal achievement by helping boys develop new interests and skills
· Showing how to be helpful and do one’s best
· Providing fun and exciting new things to do
· Preparing boys to become Boy Scouts

1.3 Pack Organization: Cub Scout Pack 139 operates in accordance with laws and rules published by the Boy Scouts of America.

1.3.1 The Chartering Organization, St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, sponsors the pack and provides support and oversight of pack operations.

1.3.2 The Pack Committee, conducts the regular pack business. The Pack Committee is chaired by the Committee Chairperson, typically meets monthly, but can be held more often if required. Additional committee members , their duties and responsibilities, and meeting schedules can be found in this document.
1.3.3

1.3.4 Sub-Committees. For pack activities and special events, the Cubmaster or Committee Chair may appoint chairpersons to plan, organize and administer to those events. Examples of such events are: Popcorn sales, Scouting for Food, Fundraising, Space Derby, Raingutter Regatta, Pinewood Derby, Blue and Gold Banquet, Family Campouts, Tiger Growl, and the like. The duration of service for any given sub-committee will vary, but all sub-committees will be dissolved at the end of each fiscal year.

1.4.1 1.5 Pack Meetings: Pack 139 will typically hold monthly pack meetings

1.5 The Annual Planning Meeting: This meeting will be held at least three (3) months prior to the start of the new school year, typically August 1st. All Pack Committee members are needed during this meeting as the primary agenda items are: review of previous year’s activities and plan the next year’s Scout calendar, the setting of the general schedule of activities, development of an operating budget and selection of leaders, re-charter and committee membership. The Pack Committee may assign agenda items as the need arises.

1.6 Pack Committee Meetings: These meetings will be held once a month at an agreed to location by the Pack Committee at the Annual Planning meeting. The time and location of the next Committee meeting will be announced at the Pack meeting.

1.6.1 1.7.1 The minutes from the previous Pack Committee meeting will be submitted for Pack Committee approval, and will be made available upon request by any Pack member. Likewise, the Pack Treasurer will submit a monthly financial statement showing budgeted vs. actual expenditures, and closing balances on checking, scout shop unit and other account. reports, and will be made available upon request by any Pack member.

1.6.5 When planning pack activities, no obligation will be made to participate in any civic, community, school, military, BSA, or Pack function without first obtaining the approval at the monthly Pack Committee meeting.

1.6.6 Pack Committee voting members will consist of all the registered leaders within Cub Scout Pack 139. Votes at other than Pack Committee meetings may be used only in extenuating circumstances and recorded in writing reflecting the approval by the majority of contacted committee members.

1.7.4 All non-Cub Scout children, relatives or other invited guests attending the Cub Scout Pack meetings are the responsibility of the attending Scout’s parent(s) / designated guardians. No child will be allowed to run freely or randomly about the halls, meeting room, or any other part of the building, before, during, or after the Cub Scout Pack meeting. Active Cub Scouts are the responsibility of their parents during Pack events. Den Leaders will be responsible for providing activities and overseeing the activities. Discipline is the responsibility of the parent/guardian. If a child presents a behavior problem and/or is disruptive, the parent/guardian is expected to discipline their child. Failure to do so may result in leadership intervention and/or excusal from the meeting.

1.7.5 Central Florida Council Little Econ District Roundtable is held monthly and the date location published in advance by the Council. All leaders are urged to attend. This is a forum of continuing education training at all leader levels.

1.7 Financial Policy: Any monies paid out by the Pack Treasury must be approved by a majority of the Pack Committee present at the Pack Committee meetings. The people authorized to issue money for payment of Cub Scout Pack materials in emergencies must include the Treasurer and one of the following: the Cubmaster, or Committee Chairman. No vote is required for the payment of normal operating expenses (i.e. Insurance, Forms, etc.).

1.7.1 1.8.1 Fiscal Year: The pack fiscal year will commence July 1 and end June 30 of each calendar year.

1.7.2 Each registered member of the Cub Scout Pack will pay annual dues established by the Pack Committee at the beginning of each fiscal year. These monies collected will support initial operating funds of the Pack while awaiting the collection of fund-raising monies to support the planned year of scouting. The dues are irrespective of any Den dues that may be collected in order to operate the Dens.

1.7.3 Regular spending of monies for advancement items to include badges of rank, arrow points, year pins, sport belt loops, attendance pins, activity pins, certificates, and special awards will be done by the Pack Treasurer and the Advancement Coordinator, and/or the Cubmaster. The purchaser must submit to the Treasurer an itemized Council receipt for items purchased for advancement.

1.7.4 When possible the Pack Committee will utilize the Tax Free Exemption status for Pack related purchases, where accepted. Copies of the Tax Free Exemption form can be obtained from the Pack Treasurer or Committee Chair. The Pack Treasurer is responsible for maintaining the Tax Free Exemption status.

1.7.5 The Pack will conduct an annual budget planning session and the goal for the Pack is to “rollover” no more than $500 from one scout year to the next. .

1.7.6 Dens are authorized to collect Den dues as they see fit. The Den leader shall report to the Pack Treasurer monthly on the collection and expenditures of Den dues, or other money designated by the pack for the Den’s use. Pack Committee authorization of the expenditures of Den Dues is not required in advance of the expenditure.

1.7.7 The pack will pay all fees associated with approved leader training and leader registration approved by the Pack Committee.

1.8 Uniform Policy and Dress Code: BSA policy advises the purchase of an official standard uniform. Official Uniforms should be worn to all Pack Meetings and other Pack Events as appropriate.

1.8.1 All registered Den Leaders, Pack Committee Chair, Cubmaster, Assistant Cubmaster, Advancement Chair and Pack Trainer are strongly encouraged to obtain and wear an approved uniform to all den and pack functions to properly identify leaders and set an example for the scouts. Leaders are to look neat and tidy in their uniform. When worn by adults, uniforms provide scouts with a role model and provide unity in the Scouting Program.

1.8.2 All Cub Scouts are strongly encouraged to obtain an approved uniform for his rank and wear to all Cub Scout functions. The uniform should be clean and fit properly with badges and insignia affixed appropriately. The Den Leader will ensure each scout is advised in advance on what uniform is required for each scheduled pack function.

1.8.3 Scout uniforms can be purchased at the Scout Shop in Apopka, Travel Country Outdoors, local Thrift shops or through the use of a Pack/District Uniform exchange or Trading Post.

1.8.4 It the case of hardship, the Pack Committee can be discretely notified of the need to determine if “scholarships/grants” are available to assist in the purchase of a uniform for the Scout or Leader.

SECTION TWO / DEN OPERATIONS AND MEETINGS

2.1 Den Organization & Membership: The pack will have one or more dens for each grade from 1st though 5th grades. The number of dens will be determined by: (1) the number of scout members and (2) the number of capable den leaders available. Den size and leadership will be as follows:

2.1.1 1.4.1 Dens are typically comprised of four (4) to eight (8) boys. Dens are discouraged from having more than eight (8) boys including WEBELOS Patrols. Dens are discouraged from having less than four (4) boys. The pack committee has the authority to recommend den structure as the committee sees fit. The Cubmaster will assign Cub Scouts to Dens. Recommendations from Den Leaders will be considered. Den assignments will not be modified without the Cubmaster’s approval.

2.2 Leadership: Membership of Scouts and Scout Leaders is open to all qualified persons in accordance with BSA policy. The Den Leader and Assistant Den Leader(s) are responsible to the Pack Committee for the efficient and effective operation of his or her assigned den. Effective operation includes planning and conduct of den meetings and outings, reporting if a scout has gone inactive, and progress toward earning badges, rank progression, and awards. The Den Leader will also ensure compliance with BSA specified requirements such as Guide to Safe Scouting.

2.2.1 Approval. Den Leader applications will go through the Committee Chairman and the Chartering Organization. The BSA will conduct the appropriate background checks of all applications according to BSA policy.

2.2.2 Training. Every scout deserves a capable, trained leader so Pack 139 will recruit the best among us to perform these duties and offer them the requisite training. All Den Leaders are required to take Youth Protection at the interval recommended by the Council. It is recommended that every parent in the Pack take Youth Protection. Youth Protection can be taken on-line at:
http://www.scouting.org/pubs/ypt/ypt.jsp?p=i-00&c=83

2.2.3 Two-deep leadership is required at all times. A married couple regardless of leadership status does not consist of two-deep leadership. For example, if a situation arises where there is only one Registered Leader and parent present and a Scout is injured and must be immediately taken to the hospital – the entire Den must go to the Hospital with the Den Leader and Parent. At no time, are the Scouts to be left alone with a single Den Leader or Parent.

2.2.2 If conflicts arise due to selected Den meeting days and times, a new Den may be considered at the Cubmaster’s discretion.

2.3 Attendance: Each registered Cub Scout is encouraged to attend all scheduled den and pack meetings. At the Den leader’s discretion, if four (4) consecutive den meetings are missed without other explanation, the Cub Scout may be put on an inactive list for “lack of interest”.

2.3.1 Cub Scouts is a family program. Parents and siblings are encouraged to attend all Pack meetings and Pack events. Parental attendance is required at all Pack events for safety reasons. Additionally, since the Cub Scout program is a family program, and for a Cub Scout to receive his earned awards, a parent/guardian is strongly encouraged to attend.

2.3.2 Parent participation in Den meetings is at the discretion of the Den Leader. However, all Tiger Cubs must have a parent or a stand-in guardian substitute (any relative or family friend 18 years or older) at all events including Den meetings.

2.4 Den Code of Conduct: Each den should develop its own code of conduct but avoid making too many rules. The rules should be simple and clear so the boys can understand them. The boys can help make the rules. Here are some suggestions that may help you develop your den’s Code of Conduct:

· No running or wrestling indoors.
· Keep your hands to your self at all times.
· Show courtesy and respect for other den members, leaders, and the meeting place.
· Come dressed in the appropriate attire for the event being attended.
· Bring your scout handbook to each meeting.
· If a boy disobeys during a den meeting, the Den Leader may elect to phone a parent or family member to pick him up immediately.
· Scouts are to always leave with their parents after a den meeting, unless prior arrangements have been made with the Den Leader.

Post the Den Code of Conduct in the den meeting place to serve as a reminder. Boys need to know just how far they can go, and the den code of conduct will tell them this.

2.5 Disruptive Behavior: Disruptive behavior at a Cub Scout den meeting or Cub Scout Pack function will not be tolerated. On the first occasion, the Den Leader will refer such behavior to the parent/guardian for corrective action. Subsequent occurrences will be referred to the Cubmaster and the Pack Committee. Repeated occurrences may lead to suspension and/or dismissal from the Cub Scout Pack.

2.6 Prohibitions: All registered adult leaders will set a proper example at all times and adhere to the Guide of Safe Scouting.

· Vulgar or Disrespectful language spoken or printed on clothing worn by anyone attending a Pack 139 Cub Scout meeting or function will not be allowed. Offenders will be asked to leave.

· Loud or disruptive behavior by anyone attending scouting functions will not be allowed. Those not complying will be asked to leave.

· Individual mistreatment - whether physical or mental - will not be tolerated. Adult leaders involved will be suspended by either the Cubmaster or Committee Chairman from all Cub Scout functions pending an investigation. A report will be filed through the Chartered Organization, District Executive, and District Chairman at the council office for further action.

· Alcoholic Beverages - it is the policy of the Boy Scouts of America that the use of alcoholic beverages and controlled substances is not permitted at encampments or activities on property owned/and or operated by the Boy Scouts of America, or at any activity involving participation of youth members.

· Tobacco Products - the Boy Scouts of America strongly recommends that leaders maintain the attitude that youth members are much better off without tobacco. Pack 139 leaders are strongly encouraged to not use tobacco products in any form and are prohibited from using tobacco products in the presence of youth members at any Pack or BSA activity.

2.8 Complaints and Unresolved Issues: Any and all complaints concerning den operations should go to the Den Leader first. If a complaint remains unresolved, the complaint may be referred in person or in writing to the Pack Committee.

2.8.1 Questions about the Cub Scout Pack 139 Pack Policies or BSA policy must be made either in person at the Pack Committee meeting or in writing presented to the Cubmaster or Committee Chairman at the Cub Scout Pack meeting.

2.9 Withdrawal from Pack 139: Refunds for unused portions of annual dues will be considered on a pro-rata basis IF the withdrawing member states a financial hardship exists and therefore requests such refund in the form of a withdrawal letter.

SECTION THREE / RESPONSIBILITIES OF PACK MEMBERS

Adult responsibilities are delineated by BSA guidelines except as modified below.

3.1 RESPONSIBILITIES OF SCOUT PARENTS OR GUARDIANS:
· Take all around interest in what your son is doing in Cub Scouting.
· Support the Den Leader/Assistant Den Leader.
· Help in signing off achievements and electives in handbooks for Tiger, Wolf and Bear ranks.
· Ensure Pack and Den dues are paid promptly.
· Attend monthly pack meetings and support pack activities. Parents are strongly encouraged to volunteer for a minimum of two (2) pack events during the scouting year.

3.2 CHARTERED ORGANIZATION REPRESENTATIVE:
· Liaison between the Pack, the chartered organization, and the BSA.
· Ensures the chartered organization is aware of what the Pack is doing.
· Coordinates activities between the chartered organization and the Pack, and use of facilities.
· Communicate any relevant policies that the charter organization has to the Pack committee.
· Voting member of the local BSA Council and District committees. As such, they represent the Pack on these committees. If the Chartered Organization has more than one unit (e.g., a Pack and a Troop) the Chartered Organization Representative serves all.

Note: The chartered organization 'owns' the Pack, not the Pack committee. The Pack committee is simply an administrative arm of the Chartered Organization.

3.3 PACK COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON:
· Supervise all aspects of pack committee functions and/or operation.
· Chair and conduct monthly Pack Committee meetings.
· Maintain a record inventory of all pack property.
· Maintain a roster of boys and adults. Verify and update every three months.
· Authorized signature for pack checking account and unit council account.
· Set a proper example by displaying a positive attitude and wearing a proper uniform.

3.4 CUBMASTER:
· Provide quality leadership and organization.
· Set a proper example by displaying a positive attitude and wearing a proper uniform.
· Conduct Cub Scout Pack Program according to BSA policies.
· Support and assist Den Leaders in achieving their goals.
· Conduct Pack functions.
· Assist with pack recruitment (boys, leaders, committee)

3.5 ASSISTANT CUBMASTER (S):
· Carry out Cubmaster duties in his/her absence.
· Set a proper example by displaying a positive attitude and wearing a proper uniform.
· Supervise Den Leaders and Junior Aides.
· Other duties as assigned by the Cubmaster.

3.6 PACK SECRETARY:
· As chief administrative officer, keep minutes of all pack and pack committee meetings.
· Maintains pack committee records and files recurring reports.
· Handles all pack correspondence and maintains correspondence files.

3.7 PACK TREASURER:
· As chief financial officer, drafts operating budget and pays the bills.
· Authorized signature for pack checking account and unit council account.
· Prepares monthly financial report for pack committee meetings.
· Maintains Tax exempt status for the Pack.
· Assists with registration of Cub Scouts and Adult Leaders.

3.8 ADVANCEMENT / AWARDS CHAIR:
· Manages advancement program as prescribed by BSA.
· Purchases awards and badges for pack meetings.
· Maintains accurate records of advancements and submits reports to BSA.
· Authorized signature on unit council account.

3.9 PACK TRAINER:
· Responsible for all Pack-level training and reporting.
· Conducts orientation for new families and leaders.
· Ensures each leader and pack committee member is trained for his or her specific position; may conduct other training as designated by council.
· Encourages pack leaders to attend ongoing training, i.e. roundtables, University of Scouting, outdoor skills training, Youth Protection training and Wood Badge.
· Remains current with training material and program updates.
· Keep pack training records current. The Pack Trainer’s goal is to have 100% of the pack and committee members trained in their position responsibilities. Goal: New leaders and parents should receive orientation within one (1) week of joining the pack, and leaders should receive position training within 30 days.

3.10 SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR:
· Works with Cubmaster on all special events.
· Become familiar with the policies of the BSA outdoor programs.
· Assigns a chairperson to head committees that support special pack events. Will oversee the committee’s progress and will report to the pack committee on the special event.

3.11 DEN LEADERS:
· THE MOST IMPORTANT Pack member – you have the most direct and most frequent contact with the scouts! You must set the example by displaying a positive attitude and wearing a proper uniform.
· Plan and execute the den program for the year.
· Ensure all scouts perform their training tasks and report progress to Pack.
· Will establish and maintain good relations with the parents.
· Guide the Den Chief in working with the Cub Scouts.
· Maintain accurate den financial and advancement records.
· Turn in all monies to the Pack Treasurer at monthly Pack Committee meetings.
· Turn in all Den and Pack materials to the Cubmaster at year-end.
· Set a proper example by displaying a positive attitude and wearing a proper uniform.

3.12 DEN CHIEFS / WEBELOS DEN CHIEFS
· Know the purpose of Cub Scouting.
· Serve as the activities assistant at den meetings.
· Set a proper example by displaying a positive attitude and wearing a proper uniform.
· Attend all scheduled Pack and Den activities.

SECTION FOUR / Advancements and Awards

4.1 Goals: The advancement goals of the pack are:
· Personal growth.
· Learning by doing.
· Each Scout progresses at his own rate.
· A badge is recognition of what a boy is able to do, not merely a reward for what he has done.
· Advancement acknowledges the boy’s ability to serve.
· Advancement standards must be fair and uniform.
· All advancements MUST meet the BSA advancement requirements (as stated in the handbook for each respective rank or other BSA guidance as appropriate)
4.2 Definitions
4.2.1 Rank – There are four ranks within Cub Scouting. They are Tiger Cub, Wolf Cub, Bear Cub and WEBELOS Scout. Cub Scout ranks are determined solely by grade and age.
4.2.2 Badge – The term Badge is used to refer to specific awards that a boy may earn. There are two basic uses for the term Badge. The first refers to the Badge a Scout may earn within his rank. The second refers to Activity Badges that a WEBELOS Scout may earn.
4.2.2.1 Badge (of rank) - There is a badge (patch) associated with each Rank. The Cub Scout handbook outlines the requirements necessary to achieve the Rank’s associated badge. With the exception of Bobcat, a boy will be making progress towards the badge within the boy’s rank. If a boy joins Scouting as a Wolf, Bear, or WEBELOS Scout, he must earn the Bobcat badge before he can receive any other award or rank.
4.2.2.2 Activity Badge – WEBELOS Scouts earn activity badges (pins) in several different theme areas. The activity badges are necessary requirements to earn the WEBELOS Badge as well as the Arrow of Light Award.
4.2.3 Advancement – The term advancement refers to the progress of an individual Scout towards earning the Badge associated with the boy’s rank
4.2.4 Award – The term award is generically used to refer to the earning of any recognition; completion of activity or formal recognition of accomplishment
4.2.5 Arrow of Light Award- The Arrow of Light Award is the highest award a boy can earn as a Cub Scout. A boy can earn this award only after he has earned the WEBELOS Badge and met additional requirements as set forth in the WEBELOS handbook.
4.2.6 Academic and Sports Awards – Boys can earn awards under the Academic and Sports Program. These awards are in the form of Belt Loops and Pins.
1.8.4 There is no limit to the amount of belt loops or pins a Scout may earn under the program. However, the Pack will only provide nine (9) awards for any Scout in any one year. If a Scout earns more than nine (9) awards under the program in any one year, the Scout’s Den Leader, parent or Guardian has the option to purchase the award for the Scout. The Pack will award a belt loop or pin only once to a Scout, no matter how many times that Scout may qualify for the award during his tenure in the Scouting program. Exceptions to this limitation are addressed in later sections of these Pack Policies. Scouts earning more than the Pack provided nine (9) belt loops will be recognized and awarded for their efforts at the Pack Meeting via a Belt Loop card.

4.2.7 Arrow Points – Cub Scouts can earn Arrow Points for completing electives beyond those necessary for earning the Badge of rank for Wolf and Bear ranks.
4.2.8 Graduation – The term graduation refers to the act of moving from one rank to another. Since a boy’s grade and age determine the boy’s rank, changing school grades at the end of the school year typically results in the boy changing ranks. This process is typically referred to as graduating ranks. A boy with progress to the next level at the end of the year, regardless to whether or not they have completed the badge of rank.
4.3 Presentation of Advancements and Awards Policy. Advancement recognition should be given as soon as possible after a boy completes requirements. An awards presentation should only be postponed when it is absolutely necessary to do so.
4.3.1 Presentation of badges should be a part of every pack meeting. Whenever possible, advancements and awards will be presented in the form of an awards ceremony. When a boy receives a badge or other award in an exciting ceremony, it will be even more meaningful to him.
4.3.2 Advancements should be given to parents, for them to present to their sons. This act will reinforce the parent and son connection within Scouting. IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED THAT THE PARENT BE PRESENT FOR THE PRESENTATION OF ALL RANK BADGES. In circumstances where it is impossible for either parent to attend the Pack meeting, the Den Leader may, at his discretion, accept the award for the parent(s).
4.4 Immediate Recognition and Progress Awards Policy. The Pack and its Dens may use an appropriate Progress Toward Rank (bead program) or Den Doodle to give immediate recognition to boys for their progress towards ranks. No Pack record is required for awarded beads. The Den leader will track and award these immediate recognition awards.
4.5 Arrow Point Awards Policy. Arrow points are earned when a Scout completes the required number of electives in the handbook for the appropriate rank. The elective plan provides advancement opportunities and recognition for boys until they are eligible to begin working on their next rank. While a Scout can work on electives for the arrow points while he is working on earning his rank, he cannot be awarded any arrow points until he has earned his rank badge. There is no limit to the amount of arrow points an individual Scout can earn, however they must “Do There Best” when completing an elective more than once. The purpose of Cub Scout electives is to broaden a boy’s horizons, not to encourage him to earn a shirt full of arrow points.
4.6 Academic and Sports Award Policy. . The Academic and Sports Program is an optional program for all Cub Scouts. It is not part of the normal requirements towards ranks, except where used in obtaining the WEBELOS Aquanaut, Sportsman, and Athlete activity badges. The primary focus of the program is on scholarship and sportsmanship.
4.6.1 Policy Statements. The Pack has developed the following statements of policy for the implementation of an Academic and Sports Program:
· The Pack wants all boys to have an opportunity to earn available Cub Scout sports awards.
· Emphasis shall be on fun, honesty, fair play, respect for others, and cooperation over competition.
· Our goal is to expose the boys to sports in which they may not have had an opportunity to participate.
· The sports program emphasizes physical fitness, permits boys to take part at their own ability level, encourages family participation, and provides every Cub Scout an opportunity in various sports.
· The Cub Scout and his adult teammate will receive appropriate recognition awards for both participation and good performance as defined in the BSA Rules and Regulations. This recognition will take place at the next available Pack meeting after earning the award.
4.6.2 Limits on Awards. There is no limit to the amount of belt loops or pins a Scout may earn under the program. However, the Pack will only provide nine (9) awards for any Scout in any one year. If a Scout earns more than nine (9) awards under the program in any one year, the Scout’s parents have the option to purchase the award for the Scout. The Pack will award a belt loop or pin only once to a Scout, no matter how many times that Scout may qualify for the award during his tenure in the Scouting program.
4.6.3 Exceptions for WEBELOS Scouts. There are three WEBELOS Activity Badges that require a Scout to earn belt loops or pins under the sports program to obtain the Activity Badge. Belt loops or pins that a Scout has earned prior to the Scout reaching his WEBELOS rank will not count as progress towards any WEBELOS Activity Badge. Therefore, the belt loops and pins that a WEBELOS Scout earns specifically to meet the requirements of an Activity Badge are not subject to the limits on awards noted in the previous paragraph on limitations.
4.7 Awards Reporting Policy - The Advancement and Awards Chairperson will be responsible for obtaining the appropriate type and number of awards to be presented at pack meetings. All requests shall be submitted not later than one week prior to the monthly pack meeting. This Chairperson will be notified of all awards to be presented and will be responsible for obtaining the awards (subject to Scout Shop availability). The Chairperson will keep records of all awards earned using the appropriate software or hard copies as necessary. An advancement report shall be reported to the Council on a monthly basis by the Advancement and Awards Chairperson. It is acceptable for this report to state “No Badges of Rank obtained this Month”.
4.8 Awards Financial Policy. The Awards Financial Policy is subject to the rules as listed in these policies.
4.8.1 Purchase of Awards. Many awards that a Scout can earn will be provided by the Pack. Presently these awards are:
· Rank Badges (Tiger, Bobcat, Wolf, Bear and WEBELOS)
· WEBELOS Activity Badges
· Arrow Points
· Compass patch and compass points
· Arrow of Light Award
· Progress towards rank bead kits
· Tiger Cub Totem
· World Conservation Award
· Religious Knot
· Academic and Sports Awards (subject to the limits of the Academic and Sports Awards Policy)
· Emergency Preparedness
· Leave No Trace
· Crime Prevention
· US Heritage Award

4.9 Adult Leader Award Policy. The BSA makes special awards available for Cub Scout leaders who complete training, tenure and performance requirements. The local council presents these awards. The requirements for Adult Leader awards are explained in detail in several BSA publications. It is the policy of the Pack to encourage adult leaders to pursue these awards during their tenure with the Pack.
4.10 Special Awards Policy. From time to time, special and extra awards are appropriate to recognize the contributions of individuals associated with the Pack. It is the policy of this Pack to recognize the work and dedication of our leaders and parents. Special awards for these people will be voted on by the Pack Committee or awarded at the discretion of the Cubmaster and/or Committee Chairman with the consensus of the Pack Committee using the following guidelines:
· Leaders should be recognized at the end of their service.
· Parents should be recognized as soon as possible after achievement or accomplishment of the activity being rewarded. For example, a dad who builds a new pinewood derby track for the Pack should be recognized at the Pinewood Derby.
· Awards should be of nominal value to be determined by the Committee.
4.11 Religious Awards Policy. "A Scout is reverent." All Scouts and adult leaders show this by being faithful in their duty to God. Some go further and give special service. This special service can qualify them for a religious emblem.
4.11.1 Authority. The religious emblem is not a Scouting award. It is conferred on a Scout by his religious leader. Each faith has its own requirements for earning its emblem. Although this Pack does not provide religious training, Scouting activities and rank requirements aim to promote respect for religion and God. Cub Scouts are encouraged to seek religious training at their place of worship and/or in the home.
4.11.2 Study Materials and Religious Emblem. Since the religious emblem program is not a Scouting award, the Pack will not provide the workbook or other materials necessary to earn the award. Further, the Pack will not provide the religious emblem pin that is commonly associated with earning the emblem.
4.12 Pack Graduation Policy.

4.12.1 WEBELOS Scout Transition to Boy Scouting. One of Scouting’s greatest challenges is to make the next level of Scouting readily available for a youth once he meets the joining requirements. The WEBELOS-to-Scout transition should be as seamless as possible. The timing of the transition is at the discretion of the boy. It should be noted that crossing-over into a Scout Troop too soon in a Scout’s tenure may result in a mismatch in the level of maturity needed for Boy Scouting. Conversely, crossing-over too late in the normal school year may not give enough time for the boy to acclimate to the Troop prior to a long-term summer camp experience. As a general rule, the timeframe from January until March is the typical time that most WEBELOS Scouts cross-over into Boy Scouting.
4.12.2 Cub Scout Graduation to Next Rank. As the school year draws to a close, the Pack typically recognizes the accomplishments of the past year through a graduation ceremony. The graduation ceremony takes place at the last Pack meeting prior to the end of the school year. Each Scout will cross the bridge in a ceremony that represents that Scout moving forward towards the next rank.
4.12.3 Incomplete Rank Policy. When a boy becomes eligible for a rank he is automatically able to begin work on earning that rank. However, consistent with BSA rules, if a boy is close to earning a badge of rank when the school year ends, he may be allowed a few extra weeks to finish before going on to the next rank. Earning the badge will give him added incentive when he tackles the next rank.
4.12.4 Repeating a Grade Policy. What about the boy who is not promoted to the next grade with his classmates, but instead repeats a grade? Does he also repeat the rank in Cub Scouting? This should be decided by the boy’s family on the basis of what is best for the boy. Generally, a boy who repeats a grade is not held back in Cub Scouting.

Section 5 / Academics and Sports Program
5.1 Purpose. The Cub Scouts Academics and Sports Program is one method of addressing the third aim of Scouting: the development of physical, mental and emotional fitness. Fitness includes the body (well-tuned and healthy), the mind (able to think and solve problems), and the emotions (self-control, courage, and self-respect). As in most activities in Cub Scouting, this is not meant to be a highly competitive program; instead, the boys are encouraged to DO THEIR BEST.
5.2 Academics and Sports Program Basics. The Academic and Sports Program is an optional program for all Cub Scouts. It is not part of the normal requirements towards ranks (except where used in obtaining the WEBELOS Aquanaut, Sportsman, and Athlete activity badges). The Academics subjects and Sports activities allow boys to learn new techniques, increase scholarship skills, develop sportsmanship - and have fun. Boys participating in the program will be recognized for enjoying teamwork, developing physical fitness, and discovering and building new talents.
5.3 Recognition. There are many items are available for the boys who participate in the program. (Adults are NOT awarded with belt loops or pins.)
5.3.1 Belt Loops. Belt loops are awarded to boys who complete the belt loop requirements in an academic subject or sport. Academic belt loops are gold, and Sports belt loops are silver (except for the Archery and BB-gun Shooting belt loops, which are brass colored). The Belt Loops are worn on the navy blue Cub Scout belt. They will not fit on the khaki (olive) Boy Scout / WEBELOS belt. WEBELOS may continue to wear the blue belt on their uniforms. Academics belt loops for each subject may be earned once within each rank. The buckle of the belt is removed from the belt for ease of sliding the belt loop on to the blue belt.
5.3.2 Pins. Pins are awarded to boys who choose to continue their involvement in an Academics or Sports area and earn the pin by meeting the appropriate requirements. Pins are worn on the Cub Scout Academic and Sports letter. The Cub Scout Academics Pins are worn on civilian clothes only. The pins are triangular in shape.
5.3.3 Academic and Sports Letter. The Academic and Sports letter is available to boys for displaying Academics and Sports pins that Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and WEBELOS Scouts earn. The letter, a large Blue and Gold "C", representing Cub Scouts can be worn on a sweater or jacket, or displayed or framed. It does NOT go on the uniform. There are NO specific requirements for earning the letter, as it is designed merely to display the pins.
5.3.4 Other. There are also Pocket Certificates, Activity Medals, and Trophies, and the Participation Emblem. The Pack has decided not to award these other recognition items as it implements the Academic and Sports Program.
5.3.5 Record Keeping. The Pack will keep records of awards earned under the Academic and Sports Program within the normal award record-keeping protocols. Note that the Pack will not notify the Council of the individual awards earned under this program as the Council does not track progress in this area.
5.4 Concepts and Guidelines. The Cub Scout Academics and Sports program is based on the following concepts and guidelines:
· The program supplements the existing advancement and recognition program for Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and WEBELOS Scouts; it does not replace it. The program is one element of Cub Scouting, as are den and pack meetings, day camp, and other activities.
· All registered Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and WEBELOS Scouts have an opportunity to participate in the Academics and Sports program.
· Participation may take place at home, with the family, or within a den, a pack, or the community.
· Adult participation by a parent or adult relative, if possible, is strongly recommended for Cub Scouts and WEBELOS Scouts and is required for Tiger Cubs.
· Emphasis is placed on introducing a boy to a sport or academic subject, allowing him to participate in it and encouraging him to do his best. The Academics and Sports program focuses on learning and skill development, not winning.
· The primary focus of the program is on scholarship and sportsmanship.
· Each Tiger Cub, Cub Scout, and WEBELOS Scout will be presented with the appropriate recognition item for completing the requirements, whether he does so as an individual Scout, with his family, with his den or pack, or in his school or community.
· The Academics portion of the program covers a variety of subjects, including art, chess, citizenship, communicating, computers, geography, heritages, mathematics, music, science, weather, and wildlife conservation.
· The Sports portion of the program includes summer and winter sports, indoor and outdoor sports, active and less-active sports, and team and individual sports.
· Cub Scouts who have disabilities may select their own activities and design their own fitness or academic program with the help of a physician, teacher, or parent.
5.5 Special Requirements. The Archery and BB-gun shooting belt loops and pins can only be earned only at council-sponsored camps.

5.6 Program Requirements and Materials. The Pack will follow the latest available version of the Cub Scout Academics and Sports Program Guide (available from the BSA). The Pack will make available to each Den Leader the specific requirements for each available Academic and Sports award. Each Den Leader is encouraged to incorporate at least one Academic award and one Sports award into their yearly program planning. This is done so as to afford boys in their Den a structured opportunity to earn these awards.