Step 1: Orientation Video/DVD
Within 48 hours of being recruited or as part of the recruitment effort, each new Commissioner/prospect should have the opportunity to view the video: The Unit Commissioner’s Orientation—Helping Units Succeed, (AV-04V001R). Recruiter should also make arrangements for a personal orientation session with the District Commissioner or Assistant District Commissioner. Highlights for unit Commissioners (#34721) should also be given to the prospect / new Commissioner. It is now available on-line.
Step 2: Fast Start / Personal Coaching / Orientation
Within two weeks, new Unit Commissioner should complete the on-line Unit Commissioner Fast Start training, and new Commissioners should have an orientation session with their District Commissioner (or Assistant), discuss the video (#1), and then cover the orientation projects listed in the Commissioner Fieldbook, pages 3-7.
Step 3: Commissioner Basic Training - Within several months, a new Commissioner should have Commissioner Basic Training. This three-session course involves one full day of training. For more information or to find out about the next course, click Commissioner Basic Training.
Step 4: Commissioner Arrowhead Honor
The Commissioner Arrowhead Honor is a symbol of competence. Commissioners are encouraged to complete the Arrowhead projects within one year of beginning commissioner service. Requirements for Unit Commissioners are found in the Commissioner Fieldbook.
Step 5: Commissioner’s Key
The Commissioner’s Key is an important training award for completing Commissioner Basic Training, the Arrowhead Honor projects, and three years’ tenure as a registered Commissioner within a five-year period. Your District Commissioner (or Assistant) can help you with this.
Step 6: Continuing Education & Commissioner College
a) This includes a variety of learning experiences to provide added knowledge and current information useful to Commissioners, and may include a short training topic at every District Commissioner Staff meeting. Sessions can be led by an appropriate Commissioner, an invited Scouter or even some talented person outside of Scouting.
b) Another form of Continuing Education is the "College of Commissioner Science." This is modeled after college courses and degrees. The Old Hickory Council conducts its "College of Commissioner Science" in conjunction with the Old North State and Blue Ridge Mountains Council each year in January.
c) A form of Continuing Education is viewing the Commissioner Annual Orientation video each year. You can view and discuss as a group or individually. It is available on DVD or on-line by clicking Commissioner Annual Orientation Video.
Step 7: Philmont Training Center
The Philmont Training Center offers courses in advanced Commissioner Skills, advanced Roundtable Training and District/Council Key-3 courses each summer. More information and a video can be found by clicking on Philmont Training Center.
This information is available in a PDF handout here.