I’ve been a Cub Scout leader since last December, but I never attended Round Table until last night. Now I’m seeing what I’ve been missing!
Round Table is Scout Training that takes place on the district level. You meet together as a district and attend training meetings that fit into two categories –general for the program, which includes things like policies and procedures, keeping Scouting safe, where to get help, and the like, and specific – what each group needs, tailored to them.
Last night I attended New Leader Essentials. While none of the information was shockingly new to me, so to speak, I was very impressed with the extreme organization that goes into the Scouting program. This is not just a group of people who get together and decide to tie knots and go for hikes. This is an organized, structured program that is overseen by a National Council, then a Local Council, then districts, and then your own unit, and then your own den. The chain of command is put in place for support, leadership, and protection.
I was also impressed by the level of commitment shown by the teachers of the course. There were a couple of women there who had been den mothers when they were my age and had remained in touch with the Scouting program for thirty years afterwards because they loved the system so much and saw the effect Scouting had on the boys they taught. These women spoke with conviction about the importance of the program and how it literally changes lives.
Next time I go to Round Table, I’ll attend the specific class and learn what my Wolves and Bears need that I might not be providing to them. I will have the chance to ask questions and get guidance on some of the issues that crop up in my den. And I’ll earn a badge of my own. You may laugh, but that’s not a small thing – my shirt looks pretty empty right now, compared to the badges all the boys are getting.
Round Table is a great resource for Scout leaders. If you are a Scout leader but have not attended Round Table, talk to your supervisor and find out when the next meeting will be held. It’s very worth your time.
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