Patrol Elections

Before the meeting: 

1.  Decide on the responsibilities the Arrow of Light patrol leader will assist you with regularly. Suggestions include: 
   • Arrive early to help set up the meeting 
   • Welcome everyone when they arrive at the  meeting 
   • Lead in reciting the Scout Oath and the Scout Law 
   • Carry the United States flag during the opening 
   • Pick and lead a game for the to play during the meeting 
   • Help hand out supplies for an activity 
   • Stay after the meeting to help clean up 
2. Review the available patrol emblem patches at the Scout Shop. Select a few that would appeal to the youth in your den and make a list. 

During the meeting: 

1. Explain to Cub Scouts that they’ll be learning about the patrols and how they are used in a Scouts BSA troop. Tell Cub Scouts that a patrol is similar to a den in a Cub Scout pack but instead of an adult den leader, patrols have a youth leader. Tell Cub Scouts that patrols are managed by the patrol method. The patrol method allows Scouts to interact in a small group outside the larger troop, working together as a team. Each patrol has a patrol leader and today they will elect a patrol leader. 
2. Share with Cub Scouts the list of responsibilities that the Arrow of Light patrol leader will be responsible for.  Note that Arrow of Light patrol leaders are to never be put in charge of other Scouts.  The Arrow of Light patrol leader is not the same as a Scouts BSA patrol leader. Ask Cub Scouts to raise their hands if they want to run for patrol leader. Give each candidate a minute or two to share with their den why they want to be the Arrow of Light patrol leader. 
3. Pass out a piece of paper and a pencil to each Cub Scout. Ask them to write down the name of the candidate they would like to be the Arrow of Light patrol leader. For a larger den, you may also choose to elect an Arrow of Light assistant patrol leader.  
4. Tally the votes and announce the patrol leader. 
5. Provide a list of possible patrol names to the newly elected Arrow leader. patrol leader. Ask the Arrow of Light patrol leader to lead a discussion about what patrol name Cub Scouts want to use. 
6. Have a vote to determine the Arrow of Light patrol name.  

Tip: The Arrow of Light patrol leader is not in charge of the den. The den is led by a den leader