watercub

Good question. I checked the roster. The Scout in question is a Star Scout - my misunderstanding, but it explains the "SM assigned leadership project." Why the hurry? It could have something to do with the fact that he turns 18 next April (hmmm.) I liked BW's suggestions. For such a short timeframe, using action outputs that theoretically link to the outcomes that he can't control would be the fairer course to take. I also like the idea of letting him organize the advancement activities, but with some oversight on my part. I wouldn't want the "guinea pigs" to experience advancement setbacks because of a poorly designed or implemented activity plan. Beaver had a good point too. I wouldn't want to attempt a ticket item that relied too much on the initiative of others. Yes, it is discouraged by our ticket counselors. So I will de-link the new Scout's performance from the TG's effort. BTW, I already had a TG that I was coaching - and he's been doing a lot better job. I just hadn't been measuring his activity level. Our Troop hadn't had success with Troop Guides, but I think the lack of success was a function of the ASM not setting expectations and not coaching the TG. I continue to welcome your feedback over the next week - our TG's are at Double H this week which gives me a little time to refine objectives and measures.

Hi! I'm an ASM in charge of a New-Scout Patrol. Recently, the SM asked if we could take on a second Troop Guide - a Life Scout that needs a Scoutmaster-assigned leadership project (instead of the 6 month position..) Since this is a unique project, I need to set goals and objectives for his project. Besides the obvious advancement goal, I need to come up with other meaningful measures. I have some ideas, but I was wondering if anybody else at this campfire had a similar experience they could share. I'm looking for ideas on measuring leadership development as well as advancement. Outputs as they relate to outcomes - that's helpful stuff too. Thanks in advance!

There are times when the adult leadership has to intervene. Recently, some of the PL's in our troop engaged in behavior that was so contrary to the Oath and Law, they became instantly ineffective as leaders. Since the undesirable behavior was hazing and intimidation, the Scouts felt powerless to take their own action. So, sometimes you have to make a judgment call on who can be a leader. We had to do this for the health of the unit.

One other thing - your Council has to offer the online option. That was a problem with Atlanta Area Council for awhile.

Hey, I told you that I'd be back! Our Council offers NLE, Leader Specific and IOLS in a one week package, 20 fun hours! It was great to get this in while I was taking the week off for Summer Camp. My classes were at the same time as the boys' merit badge classes, so it didn't interfere with my in-camp tasks. Besides, we had 7 leaders at camp, so they didn't miss me. The training was superb - and I ate better than those who had to go to the mess hall. The camp staff ate our leftovers, and gave us the thumbs up. As the ASM for the new scouts, I was able to go back to camp and reinforce what they had learned in the new scout program that day. Geez, we were lashing all kinds of camp gadgets. I would have to agree - taking IOLS at summer camp is an outstanding opportunity to go back to your campsite and apply your skills nightly. Our trainers also gave us homework to be prepared for the next day, great for efficient delivery of training.

It's almost time for the crossover of new Scouts, and I'd like to make sure that they get a good start in the Troop. We use the New Scout Patrol, and I get to be one of the Patrol Advisors. My goal is 1st Class by next March. Any suggestions you may have, or experiences to relate certainly would be welcome. I also accept any suggestions to visit another thread. I also would like to know the characteristics of the successful Troop Guide. As these Webelos are crossing over on March 28, the faster the suggestions come in, the better off I am... YiS, ASM watercub

I have to be Dad. I have too much invested in the job. The others will have to call me Mr. Watercub. Mr. Watercub, ASM

We just had our B&G last weekend. This year, we decided to give ceremonial hand-made arrows to our two AOL recepients. They really liked it, and I think it charged up the Webelos 1's. It was a new tradition for our Pack, and hopefully an enduring one that will motivate the Webelos to earn the AOL then cross over to Boy Scouts. I think the arrows are well worth the expense. However, another tack is to have the Web 2's design their own ceremonial arrow. There's a lot of material on the Net regarding this... watercub (WDL, CM, ASM)

In Atlanta Area Council, they offer the entire series of SLT during the week at camp. As a new ASM (former CM), I am going to take advantage of that. If this thread keeps chuggin' along, I'll report back in June as to how it went.