Merit Badge College
Any Scout from any district can attend any MBC in the council.
The purpose of a Merit Badge College (MBC) is to offer Scouts an opportunity to meet with highly qualified professionals to learn and foster the development of lifelong interests. Particular emphasis is given to career and hobby oriented MB's especially those MB's with limited availability of counselors. Earning a MB is not guaranteed. No MB requirements will be excused; none will be "gifted". The unit leader must ensure that each Scout is capable of understanding the material of the MB he has chosen. Specific Merit Badges being offered are subject to change based on counselor availability.
These are Scout Field Uniform (aka “Class A Uniform”) events. Photographers and videographers are expected as well as visiting dignitaries. All Scouts and Scout Leaders should demonstrate their Scout Spirit in word and deed. Please wear your field uniform.
Cell Phones - A Scout is Courteous - If you must have a cell phone, set it to silent/vibrate. Demonstrate respect for the instructors and other classmates and do NOT make or take calls or text messages during class time.
Scouts are expected to secure a Merit Badge (MB) pamphlet in advance of the MBC and to have read it. Scouts are to have a Merit Badge Application (blue card) filled out with their personal information and signed by their Scoutmaster before going to class.
Prerequisite information and course catalogs can be found on the MBC websites. It is the Scout's responsibility to be familiar with and complete any prerequisite, project or other outside work prior to the MBC and present the work or evidence to the counselor. A note from the Scoutmaster or a signed prior partial MB Card may be useful in this. The Merit Badge Counselor has the discretion to determine if the Scout has met the requirements.
GUIDANCE FOR SCOUTS ATTENDING A MB COLLEGE
The Merit Badge College is an opportunity to learn from subject matter experts in career or lifelong hobby subjects. We seek out experts in areas that may be difficult for you to find such as Electronics or Archeology.
1.) Pick a Merit Badge
From the Course Catalog, you can select a number of Merit Badges that you have an interest in taking. We expect that you will talk to your Scoutmaster and parents about which badge to take. But in the end, we expect you to select a topic that you truly wish to learn about. Don't let rank advancement be the only consideration.
2.) Consider Your Age
While there is not an age or grade requirement for any merit badge, certain classes at the MBC are recommended for older Scouts. In the short duration of a single day, the nature and amount of material covered in these classes will possibly make it difficult for a younger Scout to keep up. This can slow the pace of the class and the class will not complete in the intended material. We want you to enjoy what you do here so you will do it well.
3.) Getting Ready for MBC Day (Read the book)
OK. So, you have selected your badges and registered online. Congratulations! The next thing that you should do, if you have not already done so, is to get a copy of the Merit Badge pamphlet for yourself. (Read the book.) You should read through the pamphlet so that you are completely familiar with it. In fact (Read the book.) you may want to read it through more than once. (Read the book.)
We do not guarantee that you will complete any badge. Many MB classes will have published a list of pre-requisites. These are requirements that you should complete before MBC day. When you complete them, bring all material to class with you such as notes, pictures, writings, reports, letters. (Read the book.) It is up to you to make sure that you complete every requirement. Even if they are not listed, some requirements may by their nature not be doable in a classroom. (Read the book.) You should at least attempt to complete these before the MBC. If you can do this, then you will get the most out of the workshop. If you do not, then you won't (Read the book.)
4.) Blue Merit Badge Cards
Your card is your ONLY record of achievement at the MBC. Keep it safe. You must have with you a Merit Badge Card for every badge. Before the MBC, you should fill out the card with your name, address, Merit Badge, and Troop information. Your Scoutmaster should sign this card indicating that they approve you taking the class (Read the book.) This card will be the ONLY record of your achievement at the MBC. Counselors are not required to keep records. Most will but some will not. You are responsible for your card. Keep it safe. (Read the book.)
5.) ON MBC Day LEARN and ACHIEVE
This is a Class A event. Proudly wear your field uniform. Make sure to have your Blue Merit Badge Card and any prerequisite work that you have done (or its proof) with you. Bring your Merit Badge Pamphlet. (Read the Book.)
EXCELLENCE IS NOT AN ACT... EXCELLENCE IS A HABIT...BE EXCELLENT!
PROPER SCOUT BEHAVIOR IS EXPECTED. EACH SCOUT IS AN AMBASSADOR TO THE HOST SCHOOL.