Volunteer to Teach Virtual Merit Badge Class

Thank you for being willing to teach a virtual merit badge class.

The merit badge counselor is a key player in the advancement program. Merit badge counselors must be registered with BSA (position code 42) for the class that they are teaching. Whatever your area of expertise or interest—whether it is a special craft or hobby, a profession, or perhaps a life skill—as a merit badge counselor, you can play a vital role in stirring a youth's curiosity about that particular topic. We must ensure that every participant “actually and personally completes each requirement” (review the Guide to Advancement section 7.0.3.2, which gives specific requirements and guidance for group instruction.)  If the requirement says read, discuss, demonstrate or write, they must read, discuss, demonstrate or write. If a requirement can't be completed during the online course, then it can be listed as a partial. Resources: Guide for Merit Badge Counseling or Merit Badge Counselor Information. STEM/Nova counselors must be registered with BSA (position code 58 or 52).

New for 2021:

  • Moderators: Each virtual merit badge counselor must provide an adult to serve as a moderator. The moderator ensures two-deep leadership compliance and allows instructor to focus on teaching. The moderator does not have to be a registered merit badge counselor and can be the parent of one of the Scouts taking the class.
  • Reporting Advancements: After the class, the instructor will enter advancements completed in Scoutbooks using the Scout's BSA membership ID.

Sign up to Teach a Virtual Merit Badge Class

 

For each merit badge class you are willing to teach, list: merit badge class, date(s), days, times, max number of students, any requirements not covered, specific instructions, and whether you need access to a Zoom account.

Example:  

Merit Badge: Communication
Day(s): Tues & Th (can be one or more weeknights or weekends)
Time:  6-8 pm (remember kids are in school during weekdays)
Requirements to complete on own: # 2A or 2B, 3A, 4, 6, 7A, 7B or 7C, 9
Max numbers of students: 15 (recommend max 10-20 students per class)
Specific instructions for students: none
Zoom account needed?  Yes/No  (Do you need access to a paid Zoom account?  The free accounts only last 45 minutes.)

The event will likely be held during the month of April. Classes could be every Tues for 3 weeks or Mon, Tues and Wed on 1 week.  It's up to you.

 

Additional Information / Comments

 

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