We have determined that a Scout will be required to have received his rank advancement in the affected ranks prior to January 1, 2008 or complete the additional requirements. To avoid question, the recording of the youth’s advancement in Scout Net 2000 (National’s Advancement Record data base) will establish be used as the date of advancement. We also are under the impression that Troop Master will be updated and Units using Troop Master should contact their website to update their software.

If you have any additional questions, please contact your District Advancement Committee or District Executive for further clarifications.

Yours in Scouting

Steve Dickinson

Hawkeye Area Council Advancement Chairperson

The National Youth Protection Committee recommended additions to Boy Scout rank requirements that were approved and will become effective January 1, 2008. These changes will help us advance the importance of Youth Protection training beyond the initial Boy Scout joining requirements, and keep youth informed and actively engaged in understanding the key elements of personal safety and protection.

Tenderfoot Rank

Revised requirement 9:

Explain the importance of the buddy system as it relates to your personal safety on outings and in your neighborhood. Describe what a bully is and how you should respond to one.

Second Class Rank

Explain the three R’s of personal safety and protection.

First Class Rank

New requirement 12:

Describe the three things you should avoid doing related to use of the Internet. Describe a cyberbully and how you should respond to one.

The changes will be represented in the 2008 Boy Scout Requirements book and the revised ninth printing of the 11th edition of the Boy Scout Handbook.