Update May 7, 2020

We have had an overwhelming response to our first class and currently have a significant waitlist. We are in the process of finalizing details for future classes and anticipate having more classes posted by May 15. Those on the current waitlist will have priority, we will then open registrations to more Scouts.

Thank you for your patience as we work with our volunteer merit badge counselors to provide excellent opportunities for Scouts during this time.

The Pacific Skyline Council is offering online merit badge classes to help keep Scouts advancing in their goals during this time of physical distancing.

The council is working with volunteer merit badge counselors throughout our organization to offer these classes and we are focusing on merit badges that can be completed at home utilizing online instruction. The class format may vary by class but may include some time with a counselor via an online platform such as Zoom, emailing with a counselor (parent/guardian must be copied on all emails), and project work at home. Specific class formats and login information will be provided to those individuals registered for that class ONLY and their parents.

When registering your Scout, you will be required to enter the Scout's name, unit information, and email. You will additionally need to enter the name and email address of a parent/guardian who will be copied on all emails regarding the merit badge instruction. This is to ensure Youth Protection Guidelines of the BSA.

Counselors will send any instructions prior to the first class session.

Merit badge books may be purchased online at www.scoutstuff.org

COST:

The council is offering this opportunity to all council youth eligible to work on the merit badges. While we are charging the bare minimum to cover costs for these classes (some classes may be $0), we ask that you consider making a contribution to help support this service. You will be given this opportunity during the registration process.

The council spends $250 per Scout each year providing programs, volunteer training, camps, and professional services. Our goal is to continue providing outstanding Scouting programs across the Peninsula to all Scouts. 

To support our operations, we ask those families that can, to consider making a contribution when registering your Scout for an online merit badge class. We typically charge $45 for our popular merit badge midways held in February and December each year, though any gift amount helps.

Your Support is Needed Now More Than Ever

Your donation is critical during this pandemic. We have been unable to hold our normal fundraising campaigns and Scouting programs and this is the time of year that our families typically participate in the annual Friends of Scouting (FOS) campaign. FOS is our council's single largest direct source of income. 100% of the money raised through our Friends of Scouting campaign benefits the Scouts and Leaders right here locally in PacSky. Registration fees go straight to National to cover membership and insurance costs. We know these are unique and challenging times for many, but please help if you can.