Board of Review
Celebrating your advancement and accomplishments
What is a Board of Review?
A Board of Review is a friendly conversation where you share your Scouting journey with members of our Troop Committee. It's a celebration of what you've accomplished and learned!
It's a Celebration!
A Board of Review is not a test or retest of your skills. You've already demonstrated those to your leaders. This is an opportunity to:
- Share your Scouting experiences and accomplishments
- Talk about what you've learned and enjoyed
- Discuss your goals for the future
- Practice interview skills in a supportive environment
The Purpose
The Board of Review has three main goals:
- Verify you've completed all requirements for your rank
- Learn about your experience in the Troop
- Encourage you to continue advancing and growing
Board members want you to succeed! They're there to support you and hear about your Scouting journey.
Who Conducts the Board?
Your Board of Review will be conducted by three adult members of the Troop Committee. These are parents and volunteers who support our Troop but are not your regular Troop leaders.
One of them (usually the Advancement Chairperson) will lead the board as the Chairperson. They'll introduce everyone, guide the conversation, and make sure you feel comfortable.
Important: Your parents or guardians will not be on your Board of Review, and your Scoutmaster won't be in the room during your review. This keeps the conversation focused on you and your experiences.
How to Prepare
Following these simple steps will help you feel confident and ready for your Board of Review
What to Bring
- Scout Handbook: Bring your handbook with completed requirements signed off
- Green Sheet: This verifies you've completed all rank requirements (get this from the Advancement team)
What to Wear
Wear your full Class A uniform with all badges worn properly:
- Clean and neat uniform
- Current rank patch and other badges properly placed
- Neckerchief and slide
- Scout belt
Showing up in proper uniform demonstrates your respect for the process and your Scouting commitment.
What to Know
Be ready to recite the Scout Oath and Scout Law when asked. Don't worry if you need a second try - that's okay, especially for younger Scouts!
Think about your recent Scouting experiences, what you've learned, and what you're looking forward to next.
Be On Time
Arrive a few minutes early for your scheduled Board of Review. Being punctual shows responsibility and respect for the Board members' time.
If you can't make your scheduled time, contact the Advancement team as soon as possible to reschedule.
What to Expect
Duration
Most Boards of Review last 15 to 20 minutes. Lower ranks (Tenderfoot, Second Class) may be shorter, while higher ranks (First Class, Star, Life) may take a bit longer.
The Board of Review Process
Welcome & Introduction
The Board Chairperson will welcome you, introduce the board members, and help you feel comfortable. They'll explain what to expect.
Scout Oath & Law
You'll be asked to recite the Scout Oath and Scout Law. For higher ranks, you might also be asked about the Scout Motto, Slogan, or Outdoor Code. Don't worry - you can try again if you need to!
Open Conversation
Board members will ask you questions about your experiences. These are friendly, open-ended questions - not trick questions or tests!
Your Scouting Journey
You'll talk about campouts, service projects, merit badges, patrol activities, and what you've learned. Share your favorite memories and accomplishments!
Beyond Scouting
Board members may ask about school, hobbies, sports, or other activities. They want to know you as a whole person, not just a Scout.
Looking Forward
You'll discuss your goals for the future - both in Scouting and in life. What rank are you working toward next? What merit badges interest you?
Tips for Success
- Be yourself! There are no wrong answers to questions about your experiences
- Take your time: It's okay to pause and think before answering
- Be honest: If you don't know something or didn't enjoy an activity, it's okay to say so
- Make eye contact: Look at the board members when speaking
- Speak clearly: Don't mumble - the board wants to hear your stories!
- Ask questions: If you don't understand a question, ask them to explain
- Be positive: Focus on what you've learned and accomplished
- Relax: The board members are on your side and want you to succeed
After Your Review
Courts of Honor
Troop 1128 holds Courts of Honor three times per year to recognize Scout achievements:
- January COH: Recognizes advancements from October 1 - December 31
- May COH: Recognizes advancements from January 1 - April 30
- October COH: Recognizes advancements from May 1 - September 30
Eagle Scouts receive separate Eagle Courts of Honor scheduled individually. These are special ceremonies celebrating Scouting's highest rank.
How to Schedule Your Board of Review
The Process
The following steps must be completed, before the Advancement team will schedule a Board of Review:
- Complete all rank requirements and have them signed off in your Scout handbook
- Get your Green Sheet from the Advancement team (verifies completion)
- Complete your Spirit Board youth-led review of Scout Spirit
- Complete your Scoutmaster Conference
Once these steps have been completed, you are ready for your Board of Review!
Contact the Advancement Team
To schedule your Board of Review, contact our Advancement team:
Email: troop1128adv@gmail.com
Advancement Team: Heidi Franklin, Mahela Sanguinetti, Andre Chalonec, and Erin White
Questions About Your Board of Review?
Don't hesitate to reach out to the Advancement team or your Scoutmaster. They're here to help you prepare and succeed!
Contact Advancement team Learn About Advancement