Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Scouts?
Our Troop includes families from public and private high schools and middle schools throughout Arlington and some from DC, Falls Church, and McLean. Our Scouts enjoy spending time with a group of friends outside of school in a non-competitive environment.
What do they do?
The junior ranks learn practical skills such as first aid, outdoor cooking, fire-building, knife and axe safety, knot-tying, identifying poisonous plants, and navigation. They are taught by older Scouts (overseen by adult leaders).
The senior ranks develop leadership skills and learn how to interact professionally with adult leaders. They are elected to positions such as Den Leader or Senior Patrol Leader and learn how to plan and execute major events (on a campout, this could include buying and cooking nutritious meals, camping logistics and activity planning.)
All scouts perform regular community service and phone use is not permitted at Scout meetings and events.
Where and when?
The Scouts meet Tuesday nights at Clarendon United Methodist Church in in Arlington (7-8:30 PM). Weekend events are in the DC area; some, like camping trips, are overnights. Meetings and event attendance is necessary for rank advancement, but the pace of rank advancement is up to the Scout.
What are the benefits?
Scouts enjoy learning life skills from peers and developing a group of friends outside of school. At an early age they will have opportunities to build self-confidence and leadership skills through physical and mental challenges. Merit badges such as archaeology, electronics, business and medicine expose them to fields that often become life-long hobbies and even careers.
What is the time commitment for Scouts and parents?
There is no mandatory attendance requirement for the Tuesday meetings or weekend activities. Since Scouts BSA is Scout-led, your daughter advances at her own pace. Parents are responsible for driving and dropping off their Scout at meetings and events though carpools are also available. Interested parents may also volunteer for different Troop positions as long as they complete Youth Protection Training.
How much does it cost?
About $115 per year. Weekend activities such as campouts have additional fees.
Do the boys and girls interact?
The Boys’ and Girls’ units meet at the same church but in different rooms each Tuesday. They plan independent events but sometimes do joint events including campouts where there are always adult volunteers present. Many families have both sons and daughters in the Troops.