Boy Scouting provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps in overcoming them through the advancement method. The Boy
Scout plans his advancement and progresses at his own pace as he meets each challenge. The Boy Scout is rewarded for each
achievement, which helps him gain self-confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a Boy Scout grow in self-reliance and in
the ability to help others.

Each Scout's Boy Scout Handbook is his primary record of advancement.  Scouts are expected to secure the proper signature upon
completion of each requirement, and then to present the approval signatures to the troop advancement chairperson.  The troop
maintains advancement records based on the Scout's handbook.  Toward the end of each meeting, before game, Scouts who have
completed advancement requirements that evening are to leave their books at the counter.  During game, the troop Advancement chair
will update the troop records.  Scouts can collect their books after closing.

Merit Badges
Blue merit badge cards are required for each merit badge a Scout earns.  Scouts must obtain scoutmaster approval prior to beginning
work on a badge.  Scouts are responsible for maintaining the blue cards until the badge has been completed and signed by the
counselor.  Upon completion, the Scout must present the approved card to the scoutmaster, who will ultimately approve it and forward the
card to the troop advancment chairperson.

Leadership
Serving in a Position of Responsibility is a requirement for advancment to Star, Life, and Eagle ranks.  Troop elections are held twice a
year, for terms running from January 1 through June 30, and from July 1 through December 31.  Elected and appointed leaders are
expected to participate in Troop Leadership Training and actively serve in their position in order to advance.

Activity and Scout Spirit
Perhaps two of the most overlooked requirements for advancment, Troop #70 takes these seriously.  In order to advance, a scout is
expected to be active in the troop, through attendance of troop meeting, PLC's, camping events, fundraisers, service projects, and other
troop or patrol activities.  Likewise, scouts are to demonstrate Scout Spirit at all times, living the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives.
FIRST CLASS REQUIREMENT #11

"Tell someone who is eligible to join Boy Scouts, or an inactive Boy Scout, about your troop's
activities. Invite him to a troop outing, activity, service project, or meeting. Tell him how to join, or
encourage the inactive Boy Scout to become active." Scouts can now invite friends electronically. This
fun and easy activity will help a Scout complete the new First Class requirement that states he must
invite a friend to a troop meeting or activity. Go to www.thescoutzone.org. Click on "Tell a Friend."
Enter your name and your friend's name and e-mail address in the boxes. Select images of activities
you think would be fun and interesting for your friend to do. Chose the music and the message you
would like to send. Preview your e-card and send it to your friend. Print the confirmation and bring to
your next troop meeting to have this requirement signed off.