ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF SCOUTING EXTENSION SERVICE FOR ADULT LEADERS 

As part of our commitment to reach the widest possible audience, University of Scouting is offering a series of Zoom classes for Adult Leaders online. Online sessions will take place on a weekday evening starting at 7pm and will last around an hour, unless a different duration is specified. They will include a presentation, followed by Q&A time. There is no cost for these sessions.

We will be updating the class listings regularly as we confirm new sessions.  Additionally, you may request a topic by emailing UoS Extension Co-ordinator, Rachel Thiemann, at ExtensionUoS@gmail.com.

WHO CAN REGISTER: Adult Leaders for any Scouting Programs. Some classes may be of interest to parents/guardians or youth.

WHEN:November 2025 - March 2026  Please register for as many sessions as you like and continue to check this page for new sessions.

WHERE: As advertised or online via Zoom or Teams. Zoom/Teams information will be emailed to you before the event.

SESSION INFORMATION:

How to Use Scoutbook/Scoutbook Plus - Ed D'Avignon
February 11, 2026
March 26, 2026
This practical session introduces Cub Scout leaders to the wide range of tools, guides, and online resources available to make den and pack leadership easier and more fun. Participants will learn where to find program materials, activity ideas, advancement tracking tools, and planning aids to support successful meetings and events. By the end of the session, leaders will feel confident using both national and local Scouting resources to create engaging experiences for Cub Scouts and families.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging in Scouting Programs - Eric Sit
February 18, 2026
This class explores how DEI&B principles strengthen Scouting and advance Northern Star Council’s mission to prepare youth in a safe, inclusive environment. Participants will review core DEI&B concepts in Scouting, learn about Northern Star Diversity Awards for youth and adults, and examine the benefits of inclusion—especially for under-served communities. The session also addresses common barriers to access and participation, shares practical best practices for program planning, and invites ideas for future DEI&B topics and trainings to help Scouting better serve all youth.

Building a Culture of Youth Leadership in Scouts BSA Troops - Steve Smuder
February 19, 2026
The focus is on training, resources and team building for effective youth led Units. Topics include building a shared culture, developing youth leaders, and the adult's role as advisors and mentors.

Special Needs & Disabilities: Toolbox for Success - Rob Tyler
February 24, 2026
Understand different diagnoses, and how to talk with Parents, Scouts, other leaders and volunteers. Understand how youth with NBDs (Neuro-Biological Diagnoses) are thinking. Help all youth in your unit succeed, and how to develop an Individual Scout Advancement Plan (ISAP).

Unit Finance Rules and Best Practices - Greg Ball
February 25, 2026
How can your unit be financially sound? What are the best practices of the most successful treasurers? A great scouting program needs a solid financial base. Learn how to take your unit down the path of stable finances toward great programming and better retention. Put together the essential pieces of fundraising, budgeting, accounts, and evaluation.

Why Families and Scouts Leave Scouting - Nick Pedersen
March 3, 2026
This workshop explores the real reasons Scouts and families disengage from Scouting, drawing on recent national research and exit survey data. Participants will examine the critical role unit leadership plays in retention—often outweighing time, cost, or competing activities—and identify the mindsets and behaviors that most influence a family’s experience. Through practical insights and reflection, leaders will learn what consistently drives belonging, satisfaction, and commitment, and what small, intentional changes can make the biggest difference in keeping Scouts engaged.

The Autism Puzzle - Cheryl Graham
March 5, 2026
This engaging session helps adult leaders better understand autism and how to create positive experiences for every Scout. Through real-life examples and Scouting scenarios, participants will explore how autistic youth may experience the world differently—and how thoughtful adjustments can make activities, meetings, and camping experiences more inclusive and rewarding for all. Participants will strengthen their understanding of autism ,gain practical tools in helping to support scouts with autism , and learn how to create a positive pack/troop environment for neurotypical and neurodiverse youth.

Spill the Tea on ADHD - Judy Richardson-Mahre
March 19, 2026
ADHD - something we often hear about, encounter, and need to discover more about. This class provides an overview of what ADHD is and isn't along with practical tools to work with scouts who are impacted.

The views in these presentations do not necessarily represent Northern Star Scouting or Scouting America. These presentations are solely provided to improve Scouting and the youth we serve.