Skip to main content

Boy Scouts to Welcome Girls

A LONG TRADITION The Boy Scouts of America was founded in 1910. JAKE MAY—THE FLINT JOURNAL-MLIVE.COM/AP

The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) announced on October 11 that it will admit girls. The new policy will begin next year. Girls will be able to join the Cub Scout program. It is open to kids in grades 1 to 5. Cub Scout packs may include girl dens and boy dens. Each pack will decide whether to include girl dens.

The BSA will also offer a program for older girls. They will be able to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. It is the group’s highest honor. The BSA made this change in response to requests from families and girls. “We believe it is [important to] meet the needs of families,” said Michael Surbaugh. He is the chief scout executive. He said the organization hopes to bring programs for “developing character and leadership” to as many families as possible.