What is a Successful Scout?

If we are to focus on the success of our Scouts what evidence do we have that they have achieved success?

There are a few simple questions in the introduction to the Scout Handbook that serve as excellent benchmarks for success; Are you ready to become an expert hiker and camper, to explore the natural world, and to meet challenges with good judgment and skill? Are you eager to make the most of yourself and succeed in the best ways possible? Do you want to become a leader and do all you can for your family, your neighborhood, and America?

Would you like to develop lifelong friendships and a set of values that can guide you through the years to come? Do you want to understand your duties to your religious beliefs and your responsibilities in caring for the environment? Are your efforts and concentration centered on creating and maintaining an atmosphere that encourages your Scouts to succeed in achieving these goals? Some are very specific: ‘to become an expert hiker and camper’ others are more generalized; ‘to meet challenges with good judgment and skill.’

General or specific our job, our whole job, as Scoutmasters is assuring that we provide the opportunity to succeed and let the Scouts have at it.