Scout Record Binder
The Scout record binder is designed to help you organize and retain records which will document your progress in Scouting. When Scouts misplace rank advancement or merit badge cards, it is difficult to document achievements and in some cases the Scout may have to repeat the work. A record binder is also a convenient place to place projects in progress. It will become invaluable when you have a Board of Review, particularly for the higher ranks. The records you retain can also be used with your application for the Eagle Rank. Finally, your parents will find it a worthwhile aid when reviewing your advancement plans.
You will need the following supplies:
- 3 ringed binder (1½ to 2 inches)
- 8.5 x 11 Trading Card Sheet Protectors – for rank and merit badge certificates
- 8.5 x 11 Sheet Protectors – for work in progress, award and honor certificates
- 8.5 x 11 Photo Storage Pages – for patches and photos
- Divider Tabs (as needed)
You can divide your binder into different sections. Below are some suggestions:
General Information. This section can include the Troop calendar, notices of special events, contact lists and other items of current interest.
Rank Patches and Certificates. This is a very important section, as all Scouts are required to keep their own record of rank advancement. This is a good use for the trading card pages. Each rank held by the scout shall be represented in the binder beginning with the rank of “Scout”. For scouts who have earned their “Arrow of Light”, the certificate card for this award may also be represented. The badge and the appropriate certification card is inserted in the upper left hand position of the nine-pocket plastic sheet. Subsequent rank badges and certification cards shall continue to be inserted across the page, and when the line is filled, the next line down is to be used. The badge and the certification cards for each rank attained may be placed in the same pocket on the plastic sheet. All badges and certificate cards must be shown except for the badge representing the scout’s current rank. That badge is worn on the uniform.
Merit Badge Cards and Certificates. A Scout MUST have a record of all merit badges earned during his journey to Eagle Scout. The trading card pages are great for storing these records. Each merit badge attained by the Scout must be represented by the merit badge certificate card and the scout’s copy of the blue card, which contains the signatures of those who approved the award of the merit badge. The scout may also wish to include the badge itself when a duplicate is available or until the badge is sewn on the sash. The preferred order for inserting the merit badge information is in the order in which the badges have been received. The badge, the certificate card and the blue card may all be placed into the same pocket, with the badge showing first. When the badge is not included, the certificate card shall be on top and visible first. The blue card shall be underneath the certificate card.
Merit Badge Work in Progress. This section is where you will keep all information you have for your merit badges in progress. These include incomplete blue cards, merit badge worksheets, photos of finished projects, contact information of merit badge counselors you are working with, etc.
Youth Leadership Patches. Throughout your Scouting experience you may receive a number of patches. Your Scout record binder is a handy place to display these patches. Store them in photo storage pages, as trading card pages are too small.
Camping Log. Keep track of all camping trip in which you participate. You will need this information for the various rank advancements, the camping merit badge and camping awards.
Service Hours Log. You will need to keep track of all approved service project hours completed. Service hours are required for all rank advancements.
Pictures. You may wish to keep a section in your binder for photos you acquire during your years in Scouting. These photos will be useful when you are awarded your Eagle Rank. It is useful to show your progress through Scouting.
Your own use. Many Scouts keep special mementos such as Camporee patches, Quality Unit Awards, Membership cards, Special Awards and more.
You should retain your Scout record binder throughout your Scouting career. Then, put it in a safe place for you will treasure it in your later years as a great way to remember the fun and adventure you had in Boy Scouting.