Code of Conduct

Effective date: March 9, 2026 · Version 1.0

Download the Code of Conduct (PDF, 7 pages) — the official copy, including the signature page for the Scout and a parent or guardian.

I. Purpose and Scope

This policy establishes behavioral expectations and disciplinary procedures for all participants in Troop 700 activities.

Participation in troop activities is a privilege and may be limited or revoked when conduct interferes with safety, program integrity, or the mission of scouting.

This policy applies to all Scouts, leaders, volunteers, parents, guardians, and guests participating in meetings, outings, service projects, transportation arrangements, and digital communications connected with troop activities.

II. Standards of Conduct

All Scouts are expected to demonstrate behavior consistent with the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

Scouts shall:

• Treat others with respect and courtesy.
• Follow instructions from youth and adult leadership.
• Promote a safe environment.
• Use appropriate language and behavior.
• Respect property and facilities.
• Follow outdoor ethics and Leave No Trace principles.
• Maintain appropriate conduct in digital communications related to troop activities.

III. Prohibited Conduct

The following conduct is prohibited during troop activities:

• Bullying, harassment, or intimidation
• Hazing or initiation activities
• Fighting or threats of violence
• Theft or vandalism
• Possession or use of alcohol, tobacco, vaping products, or illegal substances
• Possession of weapons except when authorized for supervised activities
• Persistent disruption of troop meetings or events
• Conduct that places the safety of others at risk
• Online harassment involving troop members
• Any form of sexual misconduct including but not limited to indecent exposure, unwanted touching, sexually explicit comments, gestures or behavior that creates discomfort or a hostile environment for others

IV. Progressive Discipline Procedures

Troop leadership may apply progressive discipline including:

1. Verbal reminder
2. Formal warning
3. Parent notification
4. Behavioral agreement
5. Activity restrictions
6. Removal from an activity
7. Suspension or removal from the troop

Serious misconduct may result in immediate removal from activities or the troop without prior steps.

Disciplinary action taken as a result of violations of this Code of Conduct shall be reported to the Troop Committee Council

V. Parent and Guardian Conduct Policy

Parents and guardians are expected to support troop leadership and maintain a respectful environment.

Parents shall:

• Treat volunteers and Scouts with respect
• Avoid confrontational behavior during activities
• Address concerns through appropriate channels

Disruptive parental behavior may result in restrictions on participation in troop activities.

VI. Social Media and Electronic Communication

Digital communication related to troop activities must reflect the values of scouting. Participants shall not engage in cyberbullying, post embarrassing content about Scouts, or share private troop communications without permission.

VII. Transportation and Supervision

Transportation to and from activities may involve volunteer drivers and privately owned vehicles. Participation in transportation arrangements is voluntary and parents acknowledge such arrangements when permitting their Scout to attend events.

VIII. Removal and Participation Authority

The Scoutmaster and troop committee may restrict participation in activities or remove a Scout from Troop 700 when necessary to maintain safety and program integrity.

IX. Volunteer Liability and Cooperation

Troop 700 is operated by volunteers acting in good faith to support youth development. Parents agree to cooperate with troop leadership when addressing conduct concerns.

X. Policy Modification

Troop leadership reserves the right to modify this policy as necessary to align with applicable scouting guidelines and operational needs.

XI. Acknowledgment and Agreement

By participating in troop activities, Scouts and parents acknowledge that they have read and agree to follow this policy.

XII. Grievance and Complaint Procedure

Concerns should first be addressed with troop leadership. If unresolved, a written complaint may be submitted to the troop committee describing the concern and relevant information.

The troop committee may review the matter and issue a determination.

XIII. Assumption of Risk and Participation Acknowledgment

Scouting activities may involve outdoor recreation, travel, and physical activity. Parents acknowledge the inherent risks associated with these activities when allowing their Scout to participate.

XIV. Severability Clause

If any provision of this policy is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions remain in full effect.

XV. Hazing, Harassment, and Bullying Prohibition

Troop 700 prohibits hazing, harassment, and bullying in any form, including physical, verbal, social, or electronic conduct intended to harm or intimidate another Scout.

XVI. Mandatory Reporting and Youth Protection Compliance

All leaders and volunteers must comply with youth protection policies and report suspected abuse or safety concerns through appropriate channels and authorities as required by law.

XVII. Emergency Authority of the Scoutmaster

During activities, troop leaders may take immediate action necessary to protect safety, including ending activities or requiring parent pickup of a Scout.

XVIII. Troop Committee Disciplinary Review Procedure

Serious or repeated misconduct may be reviewed by the troop committee. Outcomes may include warnings, suspension, or removal from the troop.

Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action by the Troop Committee and, when appropriate, may be reported or referred to the appropriate District or Council-level Scouting leadership for further review or action.

XIX. Good Faith Volunteer Protection

All troop leaders act in good faith to administer the scouting program. Families agree to respect leadership decisions made in the interest of safety and program integrity.

XX. Revision History

Version 1.0 – Initial policy document created.

Signature page

The PDF copy ends with a signature page for the Scout and a parent or guardian.