Scout Resource Center         Louisville, Colorado              

 

 

 Senior Patrol Leader

The Senior Patrol Leader, or SPL, is the highest Youth position in Troop 575. The SPL is elected for a six-month term beginning in February or August, and must hold the rank of Star or higher. He works directly with the Scoutmaster to plan activities and run the Troop.

The Senior Patrol Leader is the focal point of the troop, and is expected to attend nearly all troop functions. In order to receive leadership credit from the Scoutmaster during his tenure, he is expected to attend:

 •75% of all troop meetings, patrol meetings, business meetings and Courts of Honor

•75% of all other troop activities (i.e. Scout Skills Day, Scout Show), outings (i.e. climbing day), service projects (i.e. Flag Plant, Community Food Share), and Eagle projects.  Merit Badge classes/MBU are not intended to be included here and/or count towards this requirement.

•at least three campouts during the term of office

•all Patrol Leader’s Council Meetings unless excused ahead of time by the Scoutmaster (maximum of two excused absences and no unexcused).

•Junior Leader Training (either one day or weeklong) unless he has previously attended either training and/or unless excused by the Scoutmaster for a valid conflict (maximum of one excused absence in a Scouting career)  

He runs troop meetings, leads Patrol Leaders' Council meetings and the annual program-planning meeting, and plans and leads Courts of Honor.  Part of his duties also include putting out a weekly email to the troop outlining upcoming troop plans and activities.  He is also responsible for writing the SPL column in the newsletter.

The SPL assists his Assistant Senior Patrol Leaders and Patrol Leaders when required, and apprises the Scribe of any excused absences for PLC meetings. He is expected to encourage the Patrol Leaders to earn the Patrol of the Month Award.

As SPL, you should set the example by wearing the proper uniform, being on time, and communicating effectively with both youth and adults. Live the Scout Oath and Law in your everyday life. Show Scout Spirit in everything you say and do.
Last update March 1, 2006.