Venturing Crew #820 Aquatics Programs – Frequently Asked Questions
If there is a question you need answered and you don’t see it listed here, email us your question to: crew820bsa@gmail.com!
General Class Questions:
1. How would we know when the class is cancelled?
2. When are the classes going to be? (Dates. Times & Locations)
3. Do we have to stay and watch the class?
4. Why can’t my scout enter/exit through the Main Pool/Natatorium Door?
5. Can my Scout take Swimming/Lifesaving Merit Badge(s) outside of class?
6. I would like to know how my scout(s) are doing in the class – Records?
7. Is your programs for Boys & Girls?
Class Registration Questions:
1. We see the dates are set for the next set of classes but registration is closed?
2. Does 2nd/1st Class rank advancement requirements get covered in Learner’s?
3. I’m not sure if my scout should register for Learner’s or Swimming Merit Badge?
4. Can we bring the required forms on the first day of class?
5. Do you still use paper registration forms to register for classes?
6. How do we know if our scout(s) are registered for the class?
7. How do we still know if there is still room inside the class?
8. Registration is Closed and/or at Capacity. Is there a wait list I can sign up for?
9. Are we able to finish Swimming / Lifesaving Merit Badge(s) if we have a partcial?
10. Where can we see about the Venturing Crew #820 – Aquatics Refund Policy?
11. When do you offer more classes?
Cub Scout Aquatics (Tigers, Wolfs & Bears) Questions:
1. Is a Merit Badge Blue Card a Required Form for Cub Scout Aquatics?
2. How do we know if our scout has passed?
3. My scout hasn’t finished / didn’t pass, what can they do to complete the class?
4. Can my scout miss a class?
5. Can I register my Scout(s) up for Learner’s before/after Cub Scout Aquatics?
6. Is this the same as Webelos Aquanaut or are they different?
Swimming Merit Badge & Lifesaving Merit Badge Questions:
1. Can my scout miss a class?
2. What is our Scout(s) are struggling with requirements in Swimming/Lifesaving?
3. “Make Up (Class Isn’t Required)” is on the schedule, does our Scout(s) need to attend?
4. How do we know if our scout has passed?
5. My scout hasn’t finished / didn’t pass, what can they do to complete the class?
6. My Scout(s) Merit Badge Blue Card was misplaced. How do we get a new one?
SCUBA BSA & SCUBA Diving Merit Badge Questions:
1. What’s included in the programs for such a high cost. Here is why the high cost?
2. Who is the SCUBA classes though?
3. What is Ear Equalization Problems?
4. Can my scout miss a class?
5. What if our scout struggles with some of the SCUBA requirements?
6. How do we know if our scout passed?
7. My scout hasn’t finished / didn’t pass, what can they do to complete the class?
8. My Scout(s) Merit Badge Blue Card was misplaced. How do we get a new one?
9. Should I fill out the Scuba Diving Medical Form still if none applies to my scout?
10. Can I get SCUBA Diving Merit Badge if I have an Open Water Diver Certification. Cost?
11. Can I come to the Camp out. I already successfully completed the Merit Badge. Cost?
General Class Answers:
1. How would we know when the class is cancelled?
-Please check out our Weather Cancellation Policy
2. When are the classes going to be? (Dates, Times & Locations)
– The Calendar Page or Facebook will have information on Dates, Times & Locations
-Normal Class time will be 6:00P to 8:00P, please be here at 5:45P to get marked for attendance, get changed & rinsed off. This will help us get started promptly at 6:00P!
-Please allow some time after 8:00P for scouts to get changed into dry clothes
-The 1st class will start at 5:30P, for check in. This is so scouts can turn in permission forms and/or Merit Badge Blue Cards if they haven’t done so already!
-Swimming Merit Badge Lecture Class will be from 6:00P to 7:00P!
-Lifesaving Merit Badge Lecture Class will be from 5:00P to 8:00P!
3. Do we have to stay and watch the class?
– No. You don’t have to stay and watch the class. However, if you would like to stay and watch, you are more than welcome! We ask you to enter the main pool entrance (door that goes directly to the pool), turn left and go up stairs. Perry Natatorium has stadium style seating! Please use caution on the pool deck, as it might be slippery and wet!
4. Why can’t my scout enter/exit through the Main Pool/Natatorium Door?
– Scouts cannot enter the Main Pool/Natatorium Door before 6:00P
– Locker Rooms will be locked at 6:00P. They should enter the Main Pool Door
– Scouts will exit through the same door they entered. Only exceptions will be if otherwise told to by Instructors / Perry Schools Staff and / or to report an emergency!
– Males/Boys Locker Room Door is across from the ramp to the Gym
– Females/Girls Locker Room Door is next to the Main Pool / Natatorium Door
5. Can my Scout take Swimming/Lifesaving Merit Badge(s) outside of Class?
– Yes we can teach it out of class, but is strongly not recommended! Our many years at doing this, something we have learned is scouts learn better by helping other scouts!
– If you still would like us to teach it outside of class and if our personal schedules allow us, the scout would be responsible for finding a location with a pool (one that allows diving) and the cost of 2 Adult Leaders. (2 Adults is per Youth Protection Guidelines!)
Email us at crew820bsa@gmail.com for scheduling of classes!
6. I would like to know how my scout(s) are doing in the class – Records?
– Due to Privacy, Safety & Security reasons, the records will NOT be uploaded on the website and/or social media sites! If you would like to see the records however, please email us at crew820bsa@gmail.com!
-Make up sheets will be hung on the windows of the Lifeguard Office for anyone to view!
7. Is your programs for Boys & Girls?
– Absolutely! We have already had separate changing & restroom facilities for Girls & Boys in the Perry Natatorium and Lecture Class Locations.
Class Registration Answers:
1. We see the dates are set for the next set of classes but registration is closed?
-Periodically we will update information on all classes throughout the year. The dates will not be set in stone until the Perry Local School District reserves us the facilities!
-Check our Calendar Page and Facebook Page for updated information on Dates & Times
2. Does 2nd/1st Class rank advancement requirements get covered in Learner’s?
-Yes, the 2nd/1st Class Aquatics Rank Advancement gets covered in Learner’s Lessons. It also gets covered in the Swimming Merit Badge & Lifesaving Merit Badge classes!
–If you would like Crew 820 to sign this off in the Scout Handbook, please make sure it is okay with your Scoutmaster! Give us 2 weeks if they would like a note for Scout Book!
3. I’m not sure if my scout should register for Learners or Swimming Merit Badge?
-This is going to depend on the swimming ability of your scout(s)! If they can swim the BSA Swimmer Test (same test they do at 7 Ranges Summer Camp) we suggest they sign up for Swimming Merit Badge!
-If they had a difficulty or has only gotten the “Non Swimmer” OR “Beginner” at 7 Ranges Summer Camp, we suggest they signs up for Learner’s Swimming Lessons!
-If they have had a difficulty in Swimming Merit Badge, they are aloud to switch to Learner’s Swimming Lessons AT NOT ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU!
4. Can we bring the required forms on the first day of class?
-They can be turned into us on the first day of class. However, we would appreciate them being turned in early, as we only have limited time on the first class to collect all forms.
-All required forms for all programs are located on the Aquatics Registration page above!
-Mail them to us at Venturing Crew #820 – Aquatics, PO Box 8096, Canton Ohio, 44711.
5. Do you still use paper registration forms to register for classes?
-No. We started using online registration for all programs starting in September 2019!
6. How do we know if our scout(s) are registered for the class?
-Our Registration Site, EnMotive, will send you a confirmation email to the email you registered with. This will also serve as a receipt for your personal records!
-If you pay with a check, they will added to the records as soon as we receive your check!
-You will be emailed a participant letter which includes the dates, times & locations.
7. How do we still know if there is still room inside the class?
– We will post on our Social Media Sites when classes are at Capacity!
– We will post on the Registration Page which classes are now closed and at capacity!
-The picture link on EnMotive will disappear when the class has closed!
-When the EnMotive Link says disabled, registration has not been opened yet
8. Registration is Closed and/or at Capacity. Is there a wait list I can sign up for?
-Yes. Click on the Links below the “Ready to Register” icon on the Registration Page
-There is only a wait list for Swimming Merit Badge & Lifesaving Merit Badges
-We will be in contact with you. Don’t just come to the Perry Natatorium
9. Are we able to finish Swimming / Lifesaving Merit Badge(s) if we have a partcial?
– Absolutely! Email us at crew820bsa@gmail.com and let us know which requirements need completed. We have the option to and will test them on a couple of requirements to refresh and review them on some skills! They are more than welcome to come to all the classes if they wish to do so!
-Class payment for the Badge in question will be the same for everyone!
10. Where can we see about the Venturing Crew 820 – Aquatics Refund Policy?
-Check out the Specific Program Page for the Refund Policy. Each program is different!
-The following programs have no Refund: Learners, Aquanaut & Cub Scout Night
-We may allow transfers if room allows. Talk to Taylor Symensma (Lead Instructor)
11. When do you offer more classes?
-The Aquatics Program runs through October – June! Below is a breakdown:
+ Swimming Merit Badge is from October – December
+ Webelos Aquanaut has a Winter & Spring Class
+ Boats & Floats (Tigers), Spirit of the Water (Wolfs) & Salmon Run (Bears) is in December
+ Lifesaving Merit Badge is from January – April
+ Learner’s Swimming Lessons – October through April
+ Scuba BSA – Winter & Spring Classes
+ Scuba Diving Merit Badge – May through June
Cub Scout Aquatics (Tigers, Wolfs & Bears):
1. Is a Merit Badge Blue Card a Required Form for Cub Scout Aquatics?
-No they are not required for Cub Scout Aquatics which includes Webelos Aquanaut!
-They are only required for Merit Badge Participants (Scouts BSA Scouts Only)
2. How do we know if our scout has passed?
– Your Scout(s) will receive a personalized certificate at the end of the class
-They can present this to your Cub Pack to be awarded with this elective
3. My scout hasn’t finished / didn’t pass, what can they do to complete the class?
-Cub Scout Aquatics can be worked on in Learner’s! (refer to questions #5)
-Yes we can teach it out of class, but is strongly not recommended! Our many years at doing this, something we have learned is scouts learn better by helping other scouts!
-If you still would like us to teach it outside of class and if our personal schedules allow us, the scout would be responsible for finding a location with a pool (one that allows diving) and the cost of 2 Adult Leaders. (2 Adults is per Youth Protection Guidelines!)
Email us at crew820bsa@gmail.com for scheduling of classes!
4. Can my scout miss a class?
-As we recommend not to miss the class, we understand emergencies come up!
-If your going to miss, please call/text Taylor (330) 265-5449
-You can respond to the Reminder Messages you receive about you being absent
5. Can I register my Scout(s) up for Learner’s before/after Cub Scout Aquatics?
-Absolutely you can sign your Scout(s) up for Learner’s Lessons before and/or after the Cub Scout Aquatics Night! Simply register them on our Registration Page!
-For more information, see the Learner’s Swimming Lessons Program Page
6. Is this the same as Webelos Aquanaut or are they different programs?
–They are different programs. Webelos Aquanaut is for the Webelos Rank only, as its needed to cross over to becoming a Boy Scout. Cub Scout Aquatics is broken down as:
+ (1st Grade) Tiger Cubs – Boats & Floats
+ (2nd Grade) Wolf Cubs – Spirit of the Water
+ (3rd Grade) Bear Cubs – Salmon Run
Webelos Aquanaut:
1. Is a Merit Badge Blue Card a Required Form for Webelos Aquanaut?
-No they are not required for Webelos Aquanaut which includes Cub Scout Aquatics!
-They are only required for Merit Badge Participants (Scouts BSA Scouts Only)
2. How do we know if our scout has passed?
– Your Scout(s) will receive a personalized certificate at the end of the class
-They can present this to your Cub Pack to be awarded with this elective
3. My scout hasn’t finished / didn’t pass, what can they do to complete the class?
-Cub Scout Aquatics can be worked on in Learner’s! (refer to questions #5)
-Yes we can teach it out of class, but is strongly not recommended! Our many years at doing this, something we have learned is scouts learn better by helping other scouts!
-If you still would like us to teach it outside of class and if our personal schedules allow us, the scout would be responsible for finding a location with a pool (one that allows diving) and the cost of 2 Adult Leaders. (2 Adults is per Youth Protection Guidelines!)
Email us at crew820bsa@gmail.com for scheduling of classes
4. Can my scout miss a class?
-As we recommend not to miss the class, we understand emergencies come up!
-If your going to miss, please call/text Taylor (330) 265-5449
-You can respond to the Reminder Messages you receive about you being absent.
-If room allows, we can transfer Winter Class Participants to the Spring Class
-Spring Class Participants, follow the answer to Question #3 (above)
5. Can I register my Scout(s) up for Learner’s before/after Webelos Aquanaut?
-Absolutely you can sign your Scout(s) up for Learner’s Lessons before and/or after the Webelos Aquanaut! Simply register them on our Registration Page!
-For more information, see the Learner’s Swimming Lessons Program Page
6. Is this the same as Cub Scout Aquatics Night or are they different programs?
-They are different programs. Cub Scout Aquatics Night is an elective that can be earned to advance to the next Rank. Webelos Aquanaut can be taken by:
+ (4th Grade) – Webelos 1
+ (5th Grade) – Webelos 2
Swimming Merit Badge & Lifesaving Merit Badge:
1. Can my scout miss a class?
-As we recommend not to miss the class, we understand emergencies come up!
-If your going to miss, please call/text Taylor (330) 265-5449
-You can respond to the Reminder Messages you receive about you being absent
-We will have a “Make Up List” posted on the office to the Natatorium Lifeguard Office
-Missing 2 Classes will mean an Automatic Removal from the Class/Program
2. What if our Scout(s) is struggling with Requirements in Swimming/Lifesaving?
-We will go back and work with Scouts who are having trouble with requirements
-If your Scout is having trouble, don’t give up, tell us and we will assist them to succeed!
-Your Scouts success and safety is our business. We take this very seriously!
-If they continue to have lots of difficulty, they will be aloud, after we talk to the parents/guardians, to Learner’s Swimming Lessons AT NOT ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU!
3. “Make Up (Class Isn’t Required!) is on the schedule, does our Scout(s) need to attend?
-Check the records after class! We will also go through each scout after class to verify if they need to attend the Make Up Class!
-Scouts with not completed requirements will need to attend the Make Up Class
4. How do we know if our scout has passed?
– Merit Badge Participants will receive their Merit Badge Blue Cards back at Lecture Class
-Venturing Crew #820 will keep the “Counselor” Portion of the Merit Badge Blue Card
5. My scout hasn’t finished / didn’t pass, what can they do to complete the class?
-Swimming Merit Badge can be worked on during Lifesaving and/or Learner’s Lessons
-Lifesaving Merit Badge will have to be worked on outside of class unfortunately
-Otherwise you will have to ask for a partial for either Swimming and/or Lifesaving
-If you would like to make it up outside of class and if our personal schedules allow us, the scout would be responsible for finding a location with a pool (one that allows diving) and the cost of 2 Adult Leaders. (2 Adults is per Youth Protection Guidelines!)
Email us at crew820bsa@gmail.com for scheduling of classes
6. My Scout(s) Merit Badge Blue Card was misplaced. How do we get a new one?
-Venturing Crew #820 has kept the “Counselor Portion” of all Merit Badge Cards
-We have kept all the Blue Cards from Troop 16 Aquatics Programs (2003-2018)
-Email us at crew820bsa@gmail.com, We will work on finding your card, because we have a ton of them, and work on getting a new resigned merit badge blue card to you!
SCUBA BSA & SCUBA Diving Merit Badge:
1. What’s included in the programs for such a high cost? Here is why the high cost?
SCUBA BSA = $125.00
-All equipment is rented includes training with one full air tank ($100)
-SCUBA BSA Patch ($5)
SCUBA Diving Merit Badge = $800.00 (Break downs below of cost!)
–E-Learning (20-30 Hours) of Online Classes ($40)
–SDI (Scuba Diving International) Open Water Diver Certification ($550)
—All equipment is rented
—Lecture sessions
—Pool sessions
–SDI Dive Log ($10)
–Quarry 4 training dives ($70)
—Diving $20 a day
—Air $10 a fill
–Weekend of camping lodging & food ($30)
2. Who is the SCUBA classes though?
-SDI (Scuba Diving International) though Davey Bones SCUBA Center out of Barberton, Ohio. Venturing Crew #820 helps promote and also teaches some of the non SCUBA certification parts.
3. What is Ear Equalization Problems?
-The ambient pressure exceeds the pressure in your middle ear, equalization practices will be reviewed and taught during the class. (Very Important to Remember!)
4. Can my scout miss a class?
-Missing a class makes it very difficult to make up!
-If your going to miss, please call/text Taylor (330) 265-5449
-You can respond to the Reminder Messages you receive about you being absent
-We will try to make arrangements for a make up class but no guarantee!
5. What if our scout struggles with some of the SCUBA requirements?
-We will have some time if a scout has trouble with some of the requirements to go back and practice, but some additional time may be necessary to makeup the missed time!
6. How do we know if our scout passed?
-SCUBA BSA we give each scout the SCUBA BSA award & a certificate.
-SCUBA Diving Merit Badge we give each scout their blue card back at the last class and the scout will also receive SDI Open Water Diver License.
– Any questions on the records, records are updated weekly and fresh sheets are printed before classes. If you would like to see them, just ask! You can also email us at crew820bsa@gmail.com and he will give you a report on the scout(s) in question!
7. My scout hasn’t finished / didn’t pass, what can they do to complete the class?
-SCUBA BSA is an introduction to SCUBA diving we do offer the class twice a year.
-SCUBA Diving Merit Badge will have to be worked on outside the class setting, if it is part of requirement 4 “Earn an Open Water Diver Certification” your going to have to contact the SCUBA shop, all other requirements can be made up though our aquatics group.
8. My Scout(s) Merit Badge Blue Card was misplaced. How do we get a new one?
-Venturing Crew #820 has kept the “Counselor Portion” of all Merit Badge Cards
-We have kept all the Blue Cards from Troop 16 Aquatics Programs (2003-2018)
-Email us at crew820bsa@gmail.com, We will work on finding your card, because we have a ton of them, and work on getting a new resigned merit badge blue card to you!
9. Should I fill out the Scuba Diving Medical Form still if none applies to my scout?
– Yes! A doctor can only make this decision about Diving. All forms MUST be completed to participate in any Scuba Diving Activities.
10. Can I get SCUBA Diving Merit Badge if I have an Open Water Diver Certification. Cost?
– Yes! We will need a copy of the scout’s Open Water Diver License plus some of the scout’s diving logs to verify his certification as well as a copy of his blue card for Swimming Merit Badge. Arrangement will then be made to finish the rest of the requirements. Please keep in mind that if the scout hasn’t been diving in some time that we might require a refresher at the pool or the scout can come on the Camp out with us! The cost will be less since the scout is certified already! I.E. $50-$200 depend on equipment/pool/camp out.
11. Can I come to the Camp out. I already successfully completed the Merit Badge. Cost?
– Yes! A scout can join us for the Camp out with us as long as space is available. The cost would be $175 to cover the camp out which includes Diving ($20 a day = $40), Up to 6 Air Tank Fills ($60), and camping lodging & food ($30). Equipment would be separate!
Venturing Crew 820 BSA 