Key Points

Key Points to know about the BSA

Chartered organizations agree to use the Scouting program in accordance with their own policies as well as those from BSA. The program is flexible but major departures from BSA methods and policies are not permitted. As a parent, you should be aware that:

• Leadership is restricted to qualified adults who subscribe to the Declaration of Religious Principle, the Scout Oath, and the Scout Law.

• Citizenship activities are encouraged, but partisan political activities are prohibited.

• Marksmanship and elementary drill for ceremonies are permitted.

• The Boy Scouts of America recognizes the importance of religious faith and duty; it leaves religious instruction to the member’s religious leaders and family. Members who do not belong to a unit’s religious chartered organization shall not be required to participate in its religious activities.

• Two registered adult leaders or one registered adult leader and a parent of a participant, one of whom must be 21 years of age or older, are required on all trips and outings. If activities are coeducational, leaders of both sexes must be present.

• Corporal punishment and hazing are not permitted. Parents and unit leaders must work together to solve discipline problems.

• One-on-one activities between youth members and adults are not permitted; personal conferences must be conducted in plain view of others.

• If you suspect that anyone in the unit is a victim of child abuse, immediately contact the Scout Executive, who is responsible for reporting this to the appropriate authorities.

• All Scouting activities are open to parental visitation. There are no “secret” organizations within the Boy Scouts of America.