Summer is just around the corner, which means that the school year is almost over! And for many Girl Scout troops, the end of the school year brings a break from troop meetings, too. If your troop is wrapping things up for the summer months, check out these 4 tips for finishing up your Girl Scout year with ease!

Throw an end of the year party!

Many troops choose to end their year with a bridging ceremony, but if your girls are not bridging, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the celebrations! End the year with a bang and gather your girls for some pre-summer fun—whether it’s a low key potluck in the park or a trip to the local bowling alley, the possibilities are endless.

Pro Tip: Check out our Pinterest board for ideas for Bridging & Awards Ceremony Inspiration.

Use the Early Fall Preview to kickstart your troop brainstorming today.

Are you used to planning your Girl Scout year at your first fall troop meeting as a group? If so, you’re not alone! Though most troops host their first planning meeting in the fall, imagine how much time you can save if you start your planning in the spring instead? In places like Northern California (where campsites are a hot commodity!), it’s helpful to get a head start on your annual planning so that you can book your campsites, reserve event venues, and plan your troop activities before scheduling the busy season kicks in.

During one of your last meetings this spring, break out the Early Fall Preview (or visit the Activity Finder) and reserve a few minutes to talk with your girls about the new opportunities, programs, and events that await them in Girl Scouts next year. By getting them excited about what’s to come, they’ll be encouraged to renew their membership so that they don’t miss out and you’ll be able to put some structure into your fall calendar—it’s a win-win!

Plan for your own training and development.

As we look back on our year, it’s always a good idea to reflect on our own successes and opportunities for growth. Think back to everything you did this year with your troop: are there any skills you wish you could fine tune or add to your toolbox? Maybe you’re interested in leading an awesome camping trip this fall or helping your girls work towards their Silver Awards—no matter what you want to do this year, GSNorCal has an adult learning event or online training that can help. As you flip through the Early Fall Preview, be sure to take note of the opportunities available for adults/volunteers to help you be the best leader you can be!

Make sure your girls have all of the resources they need to complete any summer work.

Though it isn’t required, some girls may choose to get a head start on their badge work or Journey projects during their break (or finish up badge activities from meetings they missed this year). Before your troop parts ways for summer vacation, be sure to check in with your girls to make sure they have everything they need to complete their Girl Scout summer work.

Remember, if you have any questions about how to close out your Girl Scout year, we’re happy to help! Just give us a call at 800-447-4475 or email us at info@gsnorcal.org—we’ll be here all summer! 🙂

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Marissa Vessels—Marissa is the Director of Marketing at Girl Scout of Northern California and a Gold Award Girl Scout. Though she’s originally from Southern California (Yay, Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council!), she moved to the East Bay to attend UC Berkeley and never looked back. One of her favorite things about Girl Scouting in the Bay Area is all the incredible hiking and camping options available to girls who love to explore the great outdoors.