Boy Scout Advancement

The advancement program for Boy Scouts has two phases. The first phase of begins with fulfilling joining requirements and receiving the Scout Badge and progresses to First Class rank. First Class is designed to teach the boy Scoutcraft skills, how to participate in a group and to learn self-reliance. Scout Badge is the joining badge, and is awarded when the Scout demonstrates a rudimentary knowledge of the Scouting ideals. Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class have progressively harder requirements in the areas of Scoutcraft, physical fitness, citizenship, personal growth and Scout Spirit.

The second phase of the Boy Scout Advancement Program begins with Star Rank, progresses through Life Rank, and ends with Eagle . The Eagle Rank is designed to develop leadership skills and allow the Scout to explore potential vocations and avocations through the merit badge program. The Star and Life ranks require that the boy serve in a position of responsibility and perform community service.

The Eagle Scout rank likewise requires a position of responsibility, as well as a community service project planned and led entirely by the Eagle Scout candidate and the earning of a series of merit badges (including ones specifically required for the Eagle rank). Award of the Eagle Rank also requires the Scout to successfully complete a board of review and application package approved by the District Advancement Committee.  After attaining the rank of Eagle, a Scout may earn Palms with additional tenure and merit badges.