Eagle Scout Boards of Review
COMMUNICATION
Once the Scout turns in their Eagle application, reference letters, Eagle project workbook (with pictures and hours tracked), and personal statement to Northern Star Scouting, the application is reviewed for accuracy. Once confirmed, the Scout, parent, and unit leader will receive an email of congratulations and to be prepared for communications from the district to plan a time, date, and location for the Eagle Board of Review.
Afterwards, the Scout will receive an email from Mark Hartmann who leads the Eagle Boards of Review (EBoR).
Word of advice: It is a good practice in general, to always review your email’s junk folder before deleting, but during this time, it is crucial. If the scout misses the email, the district will offer the slot to the next available Scout and your Scout may be dropped to the bottom of the list.
THE EAGLE BOARD OF REVIEW
When the Scout has a scheduled time, date, and location for their Eagle Board of Review (EBoR), the Scout should arrive in as complete of a uniform as they have including their merit badge sash, and Troop neckerchief (if applicable).
It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that the unit leader (Scoutmaster) be present with the Scout in the Board of Review to be a calming influence. The Scoutmaster will sit behind the Scout and will not have a speaking role. In general, the Scoutmaster speaks only when spoken to.
In the Board of Review, the Scout will be asked to cite the Scout Oath and Law. This can be really hard for Scouts when they are doing this by themselves with three people watching them. It is recommended the Scout pick a point on the wall behind the reviewers to look at while citing the Scout Oath and Law.
After this, the Scout will be asked to explain their Eagle Scout Service Project in detail. For Scouts who may be shy or have a hard time speaking in front of new people, it is recommended that they practice what they will say, preferably with their Eagle Scout Coach or Mentor.
Word of advice: Have the Scout bring a bottle of water. They will be nervous. Drinking water during the review will help prevent dry mouth.
The Scouts parents should also be in attendance. They will not be in the Board of Review, but will be brought in after the review is over. This is a time to celebrate! Be prepared to celebrate! This is a huge milestone!
NEXT: After the Eagle Board of Review