Program Essentials is the core plan that girls and leaders use to implement the Girl Scout Leadership Experience in River Valleys. The national Girl Scout leadership journey books are the foundation of Program Essentials, which is complemented by skill-building activities from the Girl's Guide to Girl Scouting.

Program Essentials ensures girls have a well-rounded and consistent Girl Scout Leadership Experience with measureable outcomes.

Use the Program Essentials charts to organize your year of activities.

The 2011-2012 Program Essentials charts are now available as writable electronic documents.  The new electronic format will allow you to download a chart, fill it out electronically, and submit via email at the end of the program year. 

To download your copy of the electronic Program Essentials chart; right-click on the link, select “Save Link As” and save a copy of the blank form to the location of your choice on your computer.  Open the copy from your computer and enter your troop's Program Essentials activities throughout the year.  

Resources

Find resources to help you complete Program Essentials.

Program Essentials Resources

Program Essential Pins

Each girl who completes the Program Essentials requirements is eligible to receive a pin. These pins:

• are a special Our Own Councils' Earned Award that can be earned each year
• can be worn on the front of the sash/tunic/vest above the Journey awards
• represents one year of Program Essentials completion
• are signified by a different colored for each Girl Scout grade level
• are free of charge

Learn where to place your pins on your uniform

Submitting your Program Essentials Chart

Submit your chart at the end of your program year (and no later than October 31, 2012)

Charts may be submitted in several ways:

• Email the PDF of your troop's Program Essentials chart to programessentials@girlscoutsrv.org
• Bring the completed chart to the nearest Girl Scout Shop and exchange it for the pins
• Mail or fax your chart, pins will be mailed within three weeks of receipt of the chart