Why is advancement important?

Advancement is on of the eight methods of Scouting, and it allows youth to experience the connection between effort and achievement - a lesson that last a lifetime.

From the youngest Cub Scout on, the Scouting advancement program links age-appropriate skills and concepts to a set of measurable goals. Thus, throughout their Scouting years, all Scouts are being challenged to learn, grow and develop by being exposed to new things. Scouts learn about themselves, their families, community, nation, and the world around them. Scouts work hard, earn their ranks and enjoy the fruits of their effort. Scouts who are advancing tend to stay in Scouting: a goal we all agree upon.

Housekeeping (recording and reporting)

As with any system of reward and recognition, there are the administrative details to make it official! So how do you do that?

BSA Internet Advancement

It is very important that all RANK advancement be recorded using the BSA Internet Advancement System.

Why? 2 reasons:

1. The BSA system is the official record for each Scout's advancement. While signatures in the Scout's handbook (at all levels) are the evidence of completion, if the accomplishment is not entered into the BSA system, it will not be part of the Scout's official record.
2. In Circle Ten Council, the rank patches are FREE for ranks recorded using the BSA Internet Advancement System!

Scoutbook

Is your unit using Scoutbook? If not, perhaps BSA's web app is for you! Scoutbook was designed and created by a busy Scout parent, and after a few years of rave reviews by loyal customers, BSA purchased the product. 

Why should you consider using Scoutbook? Here are a few reasons:

1. It is an easy to use app designed to work seamlessly with mobile phones that allows leaders, Scouts, and parents to:
   1. Enter and track advancements, by program
   2. It is a communication tool, allowing all members of the unit to send messages, share calendars, and plan events and activities
   3. It allows users to capture their experiences, uploading videos and photos.
2. YES - Scoutbook uploads and interfaces with the BSA Internet Advancement System, making recording advancements promptly a breeze!

I need more advancement information!

Awesome! We can help. You can view the most current version of the BSA Guide to Advancement here. This is an invaluable tool for unit committees and advancement chairs, as it spells out the BSA policy on all matters relating to advancement.