Boy Scout troops to admit girls on February

Boy Scouts of America.
Boy Scouts of America.

VILLAGE OF WESTON, WI (WSAU) -- The Boy Scouts of America are reaching a milestone.

Beginning February 1st the organization's Boy Scouts program will officially be known as Scouts BSA, a change that coincides with the addition of the first girls into the historically all-boys program.

Leanna Holzem with the Samoset Council, based in Weston, says the girls can expect the exact same experience as the boys. "These girls will be provided with fun, adventure, learning, challenge, and responsibility to help them become the best version of themselves," she said. "Exactly the same as the Boy Scouts program has been."

There will still be a separation between troops for boys and girls, although some troops may be "linked" together and attend events together. That doesn't mean the expectations for advancement within the program will be different for the girls.

"It's not going to be tailored based on your gender. It will be the same work and dedication to the program to achieve those merit badges and eventually attain Eagle."

Holzem says there are just under a dozen all-girl troops that have formed in the 13-county area of the Samoset Council and she expects more to join over the next few weeks. Those who want to sign up can call the Samoset Council office at 715-355-1450 to be connected with a local troop.

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