According to CartoonBrew, the Boy Scouts of America have added a new merit badge to their lineup: the Animation Merit Badge. The article further explains:

“The program, created in conjunction with animators and educators at Savannah College of Art and Design, will require Scouts to demonstrate knowledge of animation and its history. In addition to learning the principles of animation, Scouts will have to complete hands-on design projects, participate in virtual or in-person tours of animation studios, and meet with animation professionals.

The badge will introduce Scouts to how animation is used across a broad range of media, including video games, film, and for business purposes, such as factory simulations, satellite tracking, medical procedures and weather prediction.”

The Boy Scouts of America are no stranger to adding new merit badges, adding new merit badges since their inception in 1911. Since 2008, they have added at least one new merit badge every year. This Animation Merit Badge is the organization’s 136th merit badge in total as well as the 2nd one added this year (with the other being a Signs, Signals, and Codes Merit Badge). I wonder if Russell from Up will have any trouble earning this merit badge?

What do you think about this new merit badge? Do you think it will help the younger generation see animation as an art form rather than kiddie fare that you should grow out of when you reach a certain age? Let us know in the comments below!

Edited by: Kelly Conley