Citizenship in Society with Ms. Finch
Important Note: Scouts, it's a rare opportunity to get this MB done in one day & offered throughout the year. You have to do your part and do the research beforehand. The bulk of this merit badge is based on your prior research. Your prior research is a requirement.
The class will be offered the 1st Sundays in March, April, and May; 2nd Sunday in September; and 1st Sundays in October and November from 11:30am-2:30pm in my West Davis conference room year round.
Execution
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The Scout is responsible for research prior to class in order to complete the merit badge on the day the class is offered. The lack of research will be evident during class and Ms. Finch will likely encourage the Scout to do more research on the merit badge before signing off on all requirements.
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Ms. Finch will not serve as an expert — The goal is for merit badge counselors to have core knowledge, to be educated and informed, and to serve as an advisor and counselor.
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Scouts will:
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Complete all requirements as included in the Scout Requirements document found here.
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Conduct research.
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Explore resources on their own.
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Participate in a series of conversations with:
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Ms. Finch
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Other scouts
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Members of society
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Identify actions they can take to ensure inclusivity and to act as an upstander
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Scouts can use this document in order to help facilitate their research and thoughts prior to class.
More about the Merit Badge
The Citizenship in Society merit badge encourages Scouts to explore information on diversity, equity, inclusion, and ethical leadership, and learn why these qualities are important in society and in Scouting. The merit badge is designed to help Scouts learn about the different identities and characteristics we each possess, understand different perspectives and experiences, and promote good citizenship in society. You will conduct research, explore resources on your own, host conversations with adults, peers, parents and community members and identify actions you can take to ensure inclusivity and to act as upstanders. This merit badge aligns with the Scout Oath and Scout Law, which collectively encourage Scouts to respect the beliefs of others, be kind and courteous, and help other people at all times. Scouting has always promoted “doing a good turn daily,” and as our world evolves, we want to ensure our Scouts evolve with it in understanding, appreciating, and respecting the differences that make us each unique. The Citizenship in Society merit badge is an important initiative designed to help Scouts learn about the unique identities and perspectives we each possess and the importance of encouraging a culture – in Scouting and society – where every person feels respected and valued.
About Ms. Finch
I am an Assistant Scoutmaster in Troop 136 in Sacramento, girls & boys, and Troop 139 in Davis. I’ve been passionate about this subject for the past 25 years, diving into topics like self & society, immigration & opportunity, societal change, social services, social psychology, multiculturalism, and more. I’ve continued my studies through my Master’s program, focusing on the mental health aspects of how we engage with our communities in society and continued studies to maintain my license & knowledge to counsel & advocate for others. In addition to my formal studies, my lived experiences play a significant role in my understanding. I’ve completed Scouting America's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training, attended other Citizenship in Society Merit Badge groups. I have done several advance training programs through Scouting America.
Important
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Scouts need to register in order to attend. No drop-ins will be accepted.
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Scouts have some research to complete prior to attending.
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Scouts will be able to complete the MB by the end of the class by completing the prior research & participating in the class the entire time.
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There also is a registration link for a Scouter or parent to attend (2 deep leadership).
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There will be up to 8 Scouts and 2 adults, which includes myself, at each class. I will provide pizza and Scouts will be able to sign up to bring snacks, sides, and/or drinks during the registration process.
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Parents, please have your Scouts read the information and register themselves. You can help guide them if needed, but the registration process is part of the Scout learning experience.
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Scouts who are late and/or decide to leave early will not get full credit for the class. They will have an opportunity to attend another session and make-up that time or meet with a different merit badge counselor to complete the merit badge.
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Blue Cards: I will not be using blue cards. Do this instead:
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Step 1: Let your Scout Master know that you want to do the Merit Badge with me.
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Step 2: Have them connect me with you on Scoutbook. Here is my information: Dezaree Finch, BSA ID: 140305939, Email: scoutermrs.finch@dezareefinch.com
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