Inside the Scouter Code of Conduct, a critical checklist for adult volunteers

We ask our Scouts to follow the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Adult leaders, though, are held to an additional standard.

It’s called the Scouter Code of Conduct.

Think of it as a checklist of expectations for adult conduct in the Scouting program. At Scouting meetings and events, these are your rules to live by.

The Scouter Code of Conduct, available here as a PDF and included at the end of this post, outlines 10 standards for adult leader behavior. The code is aimed at keeping young people safe in the Scouting program.

It debuted in its current form around October 2015, but this is the first time I’m blogging about it.

You’ll notice it addresses some key items that could put participants at risk. That includes reminders about transportation and unauthorized activities. Many of the items tie in to the BSA’s mandatory Youth Protection training.

Scouter Code of Conduct

On my honor I promise to do my best to comply with this Boy Scouts of America Scouter Code of Conduct while serving in my capacity as an adult leader:

  1. I have or will complete my registration with the Boy Scouts of America, answering all questions truthfully and honestly.
  2. I will do my best to live up to the Scout Oath and Scout Law, obey all laws, and hold others in Scouting accountable to those standards. I will exercise sound judgment and demonstrate good leadership and use the Scouting program for its intended purpose consistent with the mission of the Boy Scouts of America.
  3. I will make the protection of youth a personal priority. I will complete and remain current with youth protection training requirements. I will be familiar with and follow:
    1. BSA Youth Protection policies and guidelines, including mandatory reporting
    2. The Guide to Safe Scouting
    3. The Sweet Sixteen of BSA Safety
  4. When transporting Scouts I will obey all laws, comply with youth protection guidelines, and follow safe driving practices.
  5. I will respect and abide by the Rules and Regulations of the Boy Scouts of America, BSA policies, and BSA-provided training, including but not limited to, those relating to:
    1. Unauthorized fundraising activities
    2. Advocacy on social and political issues, including prohibited use of the BSA uniform and brand
    3. Bullying, hazing, harassment, and unlawful discrimination of any kind
  6. I will not discuss or engage in any form of sexual conduct while engaged in Scouting activities. I will refer Scouts with questions regarding these topics to talk to their parents or spiritual advisor.
  7. I confirm that I have fully disclosed and will disclose in the future any of the following:
    1. Any criminal suspicion, charges or convictions of a crime or offense involving abuse, violence, sexual misconduct, or any misconduct involving minors or juveniles
    2. Any investigation or court order involving domestic violence, child abuse, or similar matter
    3. Any criminal charges or convictions for offenses involving controlled substances, driving while intoxicated, firearms or dangerous weapons.
  8. I will not possess, distribute, transport, consume, or use any of the following items prohibited by law or in violation of any Scouting rules, regulations and policies:
    1. Alcoholic beverages or controlled substances, including marijuana.
    2. Concealed or unconcealed firearms, fireworks, or explosives.
    3. Pornography or materials containing words or images inconsistent with Scouting values.
  9. If I am taking prescription medications with the potential of impairing my functioning or judgment, I will not engage in activities which would put Scouts at risk, including driving or operating equipment.
  10. I will take steps to prevent or report any violation of this code of conduct by others in connection with Scouting activities.

About Bryan Wendell 3282 Articles
Bryan Wendell, an Eagle Scout, is the founder of Bryan on Scouting and a contributing writer.