Scout-Led Troop         

Empowering youth to be leaders is the core of Scouting. Scouts learn by doing, and what they do is lead their patrols and their troop. The scouts themselves develop a troop program, then take responsibility for achieving the goals. One of our most important challenges is to train youth leaders to run the troop by providing direction, coaching, and support. They will make mistakes now and then and will rely upon adult leaders to guide them. But only through real hands-on experience as leaders can they learn to lead.

Here is a great statement from an unknown scouting source about the scouting program:

“A scout-run program requires a lot of work from both the adults and scouts, but the rewards are worth bragging about… One day you are looking at a confused scout wondering how he can manage his Patrol of yelling, rambunctious boys. Then it seems like all of a sudden, a much taller version of the same scout is inviting you to attend his Eagle Court of Honor. ‘How in the world?’ you wonder. But while we give all the credit to the will of a scout, let’s give a little credit to the adults who had the courage to stand up and get out of his way.”

Patrol Leaders’ Council

The Patrol Leaders’ Council (PLC) is the group of scouts who plan and organize the troop’s activities. It includes the Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leaders, and other scout leaders, along with the Scoutmaster for guidance. The PLC meets monthly to prepare the troop program and ensure activities run smoothly.

Scout Leadership Roles

• Senior Patrol Leader (SPL): Leads the troop, runs meetings, and guides other scout leaders.

• Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL): Helps the SPL and leads when the SPL is unavailable.

• Patrol Leaders (PL): Lead their patrols, represent their patrol at PLC meetings, and help scouts advance.

• Assistant Patrol Leaders (APL): Support the Patrol Leader and step in when needed.

• Troop Staff Positions: Include Scribe, Librarian, Historian, Quartermaster, Instructors, Chaplain Aide, Den Chiefs, and more. These scouts help the troop stay organized and successful.

       Adult Leadership     

Adult Leadership

Adult leaders are here to support—not run—the troop. They provide safety, training, and guidance so scouts can lead.

• Scoutmaster (SM): Works directly with the scouts, mentors youth leaders, and ensures a safe and fun program.

• Assistant Scoutmasters (ASMs): Support the Scoutmaster and provide two-deep leadership at all activities.

• Troop Committee: A group of adult volunteers (often parents) who handle troop business, fundraising, records, and support the Scoutmaster.

Committee positions include: Committee Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, Advancement Chair, Equipment Coordinator, Outdoor/Activities Chair, Membership Chair, and Training Chair.