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127 Code of Conduct Agreement
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Troop Conduct and

Discipline Policy

All Scouts and Scouters of Troop 127 are expected to exhibit “Scout Spirit”, which is defined as the daily living of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.  Scouting should be fun and challenging while providing a safe and supportive environment in which Scouts can learn and grow without unnecessary roughness, physical or verbal intimidation, foul or offensive language or disrespectful behavior. All Scouts should help build Troop unity and an effective, enjoyable program. These are the basics of Scouting.

The “Spirit of Scouting” dictates high expectations for the behavior of all Scouts in Troop 127.  

All Troop members are asked to abide by the rules and guidelines set forth here and are expected

to show self-control and self-discipline. Failure to comply may jeopardize the sign off for “Scout

Spirit” for a period of time at rank advancement.

Code of Conduct

The following rules of conduct have been adopted for purposes of health, safety and behavioral conduct:

1.        Failure to follow reasonable directives from an adult or junior leader is unacceptable.

2.        Unruly, loud, disrespectful or disobedient behavior will not be tolerated. The Scoutmaster or Leader in charge is responsible for each boy’s safety and will be obeyed to the fullest extent.

3.        When the sign goes up. everyone is quiet. This is true not only at our Troop meetings, but also at every Scout event. Failure to stop talking when the sign is raised cuts into time allocated for activities.

4.        No swearing.  offensive or use of unfit language.

5.        No fires of any kind are permitted inside tents. This means no candles, lit matches, stoves, heaters or lanterns. Only battery operated lanterns or flashlights are permitted.

6.        Fire safety rules will be enforced at all times. Scouts will not play in the fire or wave burning sticks in the air. Fires will be placed only in designated locations. Scouts will be allowed to have matches as part of their 10 essentials, but will only be used under adult supervision.

7.        No Scout will carry or use a knife, until he has had the proper training and is in possession of a valid “Tote ‘N Chip” card.

8.        Sheath knives and knives with blades of more than four (4) inches will not be carried by boys or adults. Any knife deemed unacceptable will be confiscated. The Scoutmaster’s word is absolutely final in this area.

9.        Lights out will be respected. Be considerate of your neighbors.

10.        Respect other people’s property. No borrowing of any person’s or troop’s equipment or property without prior consent. If it is not yours, leave it alone. Practical jokes such as hiding someone else’s gear, sabotaging tents, stuffing a sleeping bag with leaves, etc. have no place in this Troop, and will not be tolerated. This type of behavior is nothing more than a crude attempt at “having fun” at someone else’s expense. Remember, it hurts to be on the receiving end.

11.        No alcohol or any other controlled substances are allowed by Scouts or adults (except prescribed medication of which the adult leadership is aware).

12.        No use of any tobacco products by any boy members. Adults may use with discretion in designated areas per BSA Policy.

13.        Firearms, fire crackers, fireworks, ammunition, black powder, sling shots, bows and arrows. paint ball guns or any other weapons are prohibited Exceptions will be made only for Troop-approved archery and rifle ranges.

14.        Horseplay or inappropriate physical roughness will not be tolerated. Never restrain another Scout. No shoving, punching, kicking or stick fighting is allowed.

15.        No throwing of rocks or other objects. Throwing rocks is unacceptable.

16.        Respect other people’s feelings. Threatening or intimidating another person by word or action is not allowed. No hazing, “put-downs”, ridiculing or name-calling. Use nicknames only if that Scout does not object and the nickname is otherwise acceptable under the Scout Law.

17.        Never venture off alone. The “buddy system” must be used at all times to provide support and safety.

22.        The intentional destruction of, or damage to, natural or man-made areas, as well as to personal or troop property is forbidden.

23.        Lying. This type of behavior is inconsistent with the goals and ideals of Scouting and will not be tolerated

24.        No fighting allowed. Fistfights, hurtful comments, jokes at other people’s expense, etc. have no place in Scouting. Loud arguments and shouting matches only lead to more trouble. Fistfights never resolve the problem and are simply not allowed in the Troop. Suspension is the minimum consequence.

25. Electronic devices of all kinds, including but not limited to cell phones, MP3 players, iPods,  iPads and electronic games at or during any scouting activity are subject to use restrictions imposed by the adult leader in charge, solely at his or her discretion, and/or the rules of any Camp attended by Troop 127 scouts..

26.        The Scoutmaster (with counsel from his Assistant Scoutmasters) reserves the right to determine other forms of unacceptable behavior as they occur.

27.        When in doubt. let the Scout Oath and Scout Law be your guide.

Adult Behavior

        All adults working with the Troop are expected to conduct themselves in a courteous and professional manner. Adults are expected to lead by example and not be disruptive or distracting during Troop meetings or outdoor activities. Scouts are influenced by the adult behavior around them. Adult behavior problems will be dealt with by the Troop Committee and all other concerned adults in a professional and timely manner.

        Adults should be ever mindful that Boy Scouts is a boy-run, adult-supervised organization. Corporal Punishment is prohibited. No adult may knowingly touch or strike a Scout.

Discipline Policy

There are times when it is necessary to discipline a Scout for abusing the Code of Conduct. Discipline and control must be treated as an individual matter, realizing the best discipline is preventive in nature rather than regulatory and restrictive. Scouts will receive positive reinforcement (praise) when exhibiting appropriate behaviors. The Scoutmaster will ultimately be responsible for the proper behavior of Troop members and, therefore, will be expected to enforce a fair and consistent disciplinary plan.

Fortunately, serious problems rarely arise due to the good character of our Scouts. When there are problems, cooperation among Scouts, the Scoutmaster and parents often turn problems into opportunities for growth and character development.

It is the responsibility of the Scoutmaster, or the adult leader in charge, to supervise the discipline of the Scout. The Scoutmaster or adult leader in charge will advise the Senior Patrol Leader of the violation of the Code of Conduct or unacceptable behavior.

How Scouts are disciplined, by whom, when, and where are important issues that must be clearly established and communicated to all Scouts, parents, and leaders. Scouts have a “right” to know what the consequences are if they break the rules. Scouts who follow the Scout Oath and Law have a “right” to expect a Troop to discipline Scouts who disrupt Troop programs and activities or threaten the safety or well being of other Troop members.

The physical presence of an adult leader is necessary to monitor the behavior of all Scouts.

The adult leader should then decide what course of action is necessary to improve the situation.

Discipline sessions are to be conducted off to the side, but in full view of Scouts or adults, and

never in private behind closed doors unless other adults are in attendance.

Adults always have the right and responsibility to immediately step into any situation they consider unsafe. These situations include, but are not limited to: fighting, hazing, foul language, bullying, sexual misconduct, or inappropriate behavior in public.


Disciplinary Action Plan

The principle first line of discipline is to clearly communicate Patrol and Troop expectations in reference to Scout behavior. When discipline problems occur that need more than a friendly reminder from a Scout’s peers or supervising adults, the following steps are taken:

1.        Any incident should be reported immediately to the Senior Patrol Leader (SPL), Scout Master or another adult leader.

2.        The SPL should have a conference with the Scout, and attempt to solve any minor discipline problem, and try to resolve the conflict by coaching, issue a verbal warning, if necessary, and take immediate action, if necessary, reporting the matter to the Scout Master as soon as practical.  However, the SPL should immediately report to the Scout Master any misbehavior of a serious nature, such as one involving theft, violence, abuse of any kind, threats of violence, possession or use of illegal substances, and vandalism, before taking other actions himself. 

3.        If adults must be involved, the first course of action is to try to get the boy leaders to resolve conflicts except for serious misconduct, including those violations just specified. The Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster, or other adult leader should ask the Scout to stop the inappropriate behavior. The adult makes sure the Scout understands the nature of the offense, discusses appropriate behavior, and, with the Scout, seeks ways to correct the issue that resulted from the Scout’s action which may include immediate consequences deemed appropriate by the Scout Master, including one or more of the first four consequences listed below in the section, “Potential Consequences” or immediate removal from the activity at which the scout’s actions occurred.  In all cases the Scout will be issued a warning that further consequences may be imposed, including a write-up, upon any other misbehavior. The session will be in full view and within hearing distance of additional adult leaders. Youth Protection Guidelines must be followed.

4.        If the Scout does not comply after the counseling session, a meeting will be conducted with the Senior Patrol Leader and Assistant Scoutmaster or Patrol Advisor. A Write Up will be issued stating what Code of Conduct was violated and the reason why this step occurred. The Write Up will be submitted to the Scoutmaster.

The following forms of action may take place upon a write-up:

A.  Removal from Activity. - If the violation is more severe, or if the Scout’s actions are continually distracting or disruptive to the operation of the Troop, or are beyond the control of the Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader and Scoutmaster, the Scout will be asked to leave the activity. If a parent cannot be contacted, the Scout will sit out the activities under supervision until such time the parents can be contacted and the Scout sent home.

B.  Choices and Consequences hearing.  The Scoutmaster or SPL may refer any matter written up for hearing by the Choices and Consequences Committee (CCC), which consists of the SPL, ASPL, and at least one Patrol Leader.  In the event immediate review is deemed appropriate by the Scout Master or in his absence, the Assistant Scout Master in charge, at any camp the Committee will be comprised of the SPL, ASPL and at least one PL or if absent at camp, those assigned as such in their absence.  The hearing will be attended by the Scout Master (or acting Scout Master if absent) and at least one Assistant Scout Master.  

        The CCC will review and discuss the problem and decide on a recommendation and/or course of action. The decision may include a recommendation of probation, suspension, or expulsion from Troop activities. Except for expulsion from the Troop, the Scoutmaster will implement the decision of the CCC, or as modified by the Scout Master at his discretion.  Any recommendation for expulsion from the Troop will be submitted to the Executive Committee for review.  The Committee only may decide whether expulsion of a Scout from the Troop is the appropriate consequence.

        Probation A period of time may be given for the Scout to continue with Troop activities, and prove that the issue was isolated. During this period, “Scout Spirit” must be demonstrated. If not, then the next course of action is suspension for a specified period of time, or in some severe cases, expulsion from the Troop.

NOTE:        The following incidents will start at step number 4B above:

•        Fights or threats of violence

•        Any abuse allegations of anyone by a Scout

•        Stealing

•        Controlled substance use or possession

•        Deliberate destruction of Troop, Personal or Private property

•        Any other incident the SPL or Scout Master deems severe

Potential Consequences

The Potential Consequences of not following BSA and Troop 127 rules include the following::

1..          Scoutmaster Conference with the Scout and/or parents

2.        One-to-one apology with Scoutmaster present and/or letter of apology

3.    Essays

4.    Tasks

5.        Withhold rank advancement due to failure of the “demonstrates Scout Spirit” requirement

6.        Removal from position or office. Potential ineligibility for election or appointment to a leadership post

7.        Block “Order of the Arrow” eligibility.

8.        CCC Hearing

9.        Suspension from the Troop activities

10.   Probation

11.        Expulsion from the Troop.

12.   Community Service hours

13.   Restitution for any losses caused by the misconduct

The following consequences and activities are prohibited in the Troop as discipline:

        Hazing - This includes but is not limited to: shouting, cursing out, ridiculing, name-calling, initiation activities or any other demeaning activity.

        Physical/emotional discipline of any kind.

NOTIFICATIONS and APPEAL RIGHTS

The Scout’s parent/guardian(s) will be notified by letter of any CCC decision or recommendation. A copy of the letter will be submitted to the Executive Committee.  The letter will include the following:

•        a description of the inappropriate behavior(s)

•        a description of the immediate disciplinary action taken

•        a request for parents’ cooperation in this matter

•        offer of a meeting for counsel by the Scoutmaster or Committee Chair with both the parents and the Scout

•        notice to the parents that continued improper behavior may lead to further consequences.

Should the decision not satisfy the Scout and parent/guardian(s) for any reason, the Scout has the right to appeal the decision by delivering a written appeal to the Scoutmaster and Committee Chair within one week of the decision. The Committee Chair will discuss the appeal with the Scoutmaster and Executive Committee, and decide if it warrants further action. If the Executive Committee deems this unnecessary, the decision is final.


Code of Conduct and Discipline Agreement

I have read the Troop’s Conduct and Discipline Policy and understand what is expected of me. I will abide by the Scout Oath, the Scout Law and the Outdoor Code. I will show respect to others, be friendly to my fellow Scouts, and demonstrate “Scout Spirit” in my daily life.

In choosing to participate in Troop 127 meetings and activities, I hereby indicate my agreement and commitment to observe Troop 127’s Conduct and Discipline Policy.  I also understand, agree and hereby give my consent to search as follows:  That while at Troop 127 activities, my belongings and area under my control are subject to search by the Scoutmaster, or an Assistant Scout Master at the direction of the Scoutmaster, without my further consent and upon notice to me and in my presence only.  This consent does not allow a search of my body or clothing being worn by me, except upon request I will  remove items from my pockets and display them to the Scoutmaster. At no time will I be personally searched or touched by anyone.

__________________________________                __________________________________

Scout’s Signature                                        Date

__________________________________                __________________________________

Other Scout’s Signature        in same family                        Date

I consent to my son’s participation in Troop 127’s meetings and activities. I hereby indicate my understanding and agreement with Troop 127’s Conduct and Discipline Policy, and I agree to support my son’s commitment to the Troop’s Conduct and Discipline Policy.

___________________________________                ___________________________

Parent or Guardian Signature                                Date