The Badge Archive

The Badge Poem is adapted from Glendyl Walton

Court of Awards Ceremony Using the Poem

Preparation:
Set up a ceremonial table or display with the badges and awards that scouts have earned. Arrange seating for families, and prepare the poem to be recited throughout the ceremony.

Items Needed:

• Badges and awards earned by scouts
• A printed or memorized copy of the poem
• Optional: A symbolic item like a candle or banner representing scouting values

Ceremony Instructions:

1. Opening: Begin with a flag ceremony led by the scouts and an inspiring Girl Scout song to set the tone for the event.
2. Introduction: The leader welcomes attendees and introduces the purpose of the Court of Awards ceremony: to celebrate the scouts’ hard work and achievements.
3. Poem Verse 1 – Symbolism of the Badge: Recite the first verse of the poem:
   “A badge is a symbol
   Of something earned
   For doing things nimble
   While a skill is learned.”
   Explain that each badge represents not only knowledge and skills but also dedication and growth.
4. Presentation of First Set of Badges: Call up the scouts who have earned badges in a specific category (e.g., outdoors, community service). Present their badges, and briefly describe their accomplishments.
5. Poem Verse 2 – Service and Giving Back: Recite the second verse of the poem:
   “A badge is a token
   Of a service rendered
   With no praise spoken
   For assistance tendered.”
   Highlight how the badges earned reflect the scouts’ contributions to their community and their willingness to help others.
6. Presentation of Second Set of Badges:
   Call up the scouts who have earned badges in another category (e.g., STEM, creative arts). Present their badges and speak to their hard work and achievements.
7. Poem Verse 3 – Hard Work and Determination: Recite the third verse of the poem:
   “A badge is a goal
   For which girls work hard
   To accomplish a role
   And meet with high regard.”
   Share how earning these badges requires perseverance, effort, and a commitment to meeting challenges.
8. Presentation of Remaining Badges: Call up the scouts who have earned the remaining badges and awards. Present their recognitions, sharing words of encouragement and pride.
9. Poem Verse 4 – Earning Badges with Integrity: Conclude with the final verse of the poem:
   “A badge is not to be taken lightly
   Its possession is quite a feat
   It must be earned rightly
   And all requirements meet.”
   Remind the scouts and families that each badge is a meaningful symbol of the scouts’ accomplishments and adherence to the Girl Scout values.
10. Closing: Form a Friendship Circle with all attendees. Select a favorite Girl Scout song to close the ceremony on a joyful and unifying note. Conclude by thanking families and attendees for their support and celebrating the scouts’ achievements.

Reference:

Bridging Ceremonies by GSEM

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