Boy Scouts' School 'Life Skills' Program Draws Fire

By Millicent Lawton

In an attempt to bring its educational philosophy to more at-risk youngsters in inner-city and rural areas, the Boy Scouts of America is launching a national in-school curriculum package that promotes self-esteem and life skills.

But the "Learning for Life" program, set for release this week, has already drawn the ire of some groups because of a requirement that the adults who lead the program, including public-school teachers, conform to the same traditional leadership standards as scoutmasters, who must not be homosexuals or atheists.

Unlike most traditional scouting activities, the curriculum--in development for three years, and designed for use in 45-minute lessons during the instructional day--is open to all students ages 6 to 18 regardless of gender, religious...