Scouting America Classes
EARN YOUR NEXT MERIT BADGE!
Take the next step on your Scout journey with us!
Burpee is offering virtual scout classes this year! Join us as we study ancient artifacts from Burpee Collections, birds found in our backyards, and mines and minerals in our geology exhibit!
Burpee also offers Virtual Scout classes by request!
The Burpee Museum is happy to help scouts across the nation or those who are high-risk continue to earn badges! Select merit badges are even offered virtually and are listed below.
Don’t see the class you want? No worries! Private Virtual classes can be scheduled for a small group or as a whole troop!
Contact Elizabeth.coleman@burpee.org to request a virtual class for any of the workshops below.
Click the Merit Badge Type to Learn More and Register!
UPCOMING BADGE WORKSHOPS
June 1
BSA Virtual Insect Study
Call 815-965-3433
July 14
BSA In-Person Mammal Study
August 12th
BSA In-Person Archeology
SCOUTING CLASSES FAQ
Cost:
$15.00 per Scout
Preregistration and prepayment are required for all scout workshops. Register online (links below) or by phone (815.965.3433)
Please Note: Burpee does not provide patches/badges
NOTE: Pre-registration is required, and class registrations close five business days before the class date for in-person classes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will the Scout class take?
Class time will vary depending on requirements. The homework requirements will vary based on the participants.
How can I submit my completed homework?
You have two choices here.
- Submit your homework via email or as a shared document to your Burpee Instructor.
- Mail your homework to the museum (include the address)
How will I get my badge?
Your Burpee Instructor will keep track of your requirements. When you have met all requirements for the badge, including projects, presentations, and homework, your instructor will send your blue card to you or complete the certification online for you.
What is the refund policy?
All event registrations and purchases are final and non-refundable. If Burpee Museum cancels an event, a full refund will be issued to registered participants. Programs may be canceled if minimum enrollment requirements are not met. Burpee Museum reserves the right to limit registrations or cancel any program. Every effort will be made to notify registered participants of cancellations.For questions, please contact the Front Desk at (815) 965-3433.
What to expect in a virtual class?
What can I expect from an online class with Burpee?
You will receive an email with detailed information about homework, projects, and other requirements for your badge. If needed, supplemental materials such as worksheets or directions will be attached, or a link will be provided. Links will also be provided to Burpee’s virtual museum, where scouts can watch videos and see objects from our exhibits and collections. Scouts will have the opportunity to meet with a Burpee Educator online to present their projects and discuss what they have learned in the virtual museum. These classes are designed to meet all of the requirements of the badge offered.
How long will this class take?
Class time will vary depending on requirements. The videos in the virtual museum will take about 1 hour to complete. The online Zoom meeting with a Burpee Instructor will be from 1 to 1.5 hours. Scouts will also be asked to complete additional homework and/or projects to complete their badge.
MEET THE EDUCATORS
Meet Emily
From horses to reptiles to dinosaurs, Emily brings her love of the natural world to Burpee every day! Emily’s passion for facilitating learning is clear in all her field trip groups and classes. Ask her about archery on horseback if you want to be impressed!
Meet Rob
Meet Rob, our BSA instructor this year! He’s been sharing his passion for science at the Burpee Museum since Winter 2025 and has many years of experience in science and natural resource education to inspire learners.
“I am looking forward to sharing my love of science and nature with visitors of all ages.” – Rob
Meet Chloe
Chloe is a Museum Educator at Burpee Museum of Natural History with a background in material culture, environmental, and migration histories. She earned her Master’s degree in History from Northern Illinois University in 2023. She is passionate about helping people make connections to the past and the natural world through engaging, hands-on experiences that inspire curiosity and lifelong learning. Working at Burpee allows her to share that passion with learners of all ages while fostering exploration, discovery, and wonder.