From: J.R. Brockman [mailto:brock.man@comcast.net]
Sent: Friday, April 09, 2010 11:39 PM
To: brock.man@comcast.net
Subject: Youth Protection
Dear Parents,
There have been some recent reports in the news of sex abuse by Scout leaders. One particular case involves allegations of abuse that occurred in the 1980s. Because of these reports and others in the news, I felt it was appropriate to address the issue. The St. Thomas Scouting program has had no reported cases or incidents or even an allegation. Despite this clean record, we must continue to stress the importance of youth protection.
To discuss our Scouting program ‘youth protection’ initiatives, all parents were given a letter as part of the orientation package that describes youth protection guidelines. Parents of returning Scouts are reminded annually of our youth protection guidelines. Additionally, ‘youth protection’ guidelines were discussed during our open house. Also, all Scout manuals have a youth protection manual that parents are required to read and discuss with their Scout.
Current BSA regulations require new adult leaders to consent to background checks. All current leaders have gone through yearly youth protection training. Before the end of the Scout year age appropriated youth protection training will be made available for all Scouts. Participation is not mandatory but highly encouraged. All parents are invited to view the BSA youth protection guidelines through the BSA website at http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/HealthandSafety/GSS/gss01.aspx.
As a reminder of some of the St. Thomas Youth Protection guidelines:
1. Two Deep Leadership requires that two registered leaders be present at all Scouting events.
2. Leaders cannot be alone at any time with Scouts. As a result parents need to adhere to the following rules;
a. Parents should not make any requests to drop off their Scout earlier than the scheduled start time of an event or meeting.
b. Parents should be on time to pick up their Scout at the end of an event or meeting or have an emergency back up. Leaders cannot leave until all Scouts have been picked up.
c. Parents should not request leaders drive their Scouts home.
3. All events and trips will utilize the buddy system where Scouts will pair up with another Scout.
4. Scouts should never go alone with an adult or any other leader.
5. Bullying, excessive rough housing, or aggressive play by Scouts will not be tolerated.
6. There is no hazing, secret initiations, or corporal punishment. Push ups for Boy Scouts may be an acceptable disciplinary action, however Scouts are never
required to do push ups beyond their capability.
7. Parents are encouraged to contact me regarding any problems at 609-381-9981 (mobile) or 856-751-2137 (home).
Yours in Scouting,
J.R. Brockman
Scoutmaster
Troop 133
609-381-9981
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