Purpose

The purpose of this workstream is to recruit, train, and mentor an adult program team capable of launching and sustaining Troop 56G as a safe, youth-led, outdoor-centered Scouts BSA troop.

The formation of the girls’ troop should not depend merely upon finding adults willing to occupy required positions. Troop 56G needs leaders who understand the aims and methods of Scouting, respect the patrol method, can support a meaningful outdoor program, and know how to mentor youth without assuming responsibilities that belong to the Scouts.

Fundamental Principle

Every Scout deserves a well-trained adult leader.

For purposes of this guide, adult leader development includes several stages:

1. Registration, approval, and safeguarding preparation
2. Completion of the requirements for the formal Trained designation
3. Practical experience within an operating Scouts BSA troop
4. Mentorship by experienced Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters
5. Advanced leadership formation through Wood Badge
6. Continuing development through supplemental training and experience

The formal Trained designation is the baseline expected of an adult program leader. It is not the completion of leader formation.

Troop 56’s goal is to develop adults who are not only formally trained, but also practically prepared to support a genuinely youth-led troop.

Adult Leadership Requirements for Troop 56G

Adult leadership in a girls’ Scouts BSA troop is open to qualified men and women. The Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters do not all need to be women.

However, current Scouting America safeguarding and adult-supervision requirements include the following:

• Two registered adult leaders age 21 or older are required at Scouting activities, including meetings.
• A unit serving female youth must include at least one registered female adult leader age 21 or older.
• A registered female adult leader age 21 or older must be present at every activity involving female youth.