Our School

To become an Eagle Scout is already an impressive accomplishment. For Jacob Planeta ’29, earning scouting’s highest honor as a freshman in high school makes it even more incredible.

A member of Troop 92 in Cheshire, Connecticut, Jacob began his journey in Cub Scouts before officially joining Boy Scouts in sixth grade. From the start, he developed a passion for the program’s outdoor adventures and close-knit camaraderie. “I immediately loved the outdoor activities and seeing cool things on trips,” he said. “I also made a lot of great friends.”

Scouting runs in the family as well — his uncle is an Eagle Scout, helping to inspire Jacob’s own goal.

Over the years, Jacob challenged himself with increasingly demanding experiences, including a High Adventure trek at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. During the nine-day expedition, he climbed the ranch’s tallest peak and strengthened his love for the outdoors. Summer camp also played a key role in his progress, where he earned up to five merit badges each year. “I did everything I could to achieve that,” he said.

Determined to complete the requirements early, Jacob balanced scouting with another passion: baseball. “As I get older, I’ll become more involved with practices, games, and tournaments. I wanted to get my Eagle Scout so I could focus on that. It’s been a dream I’ve always wanted to achieve.” Looking ahead, Jacob has his sights set on attending the United States Military Academy at West Point.

For his Eagle Scout Service Project, Jacob gave back to his school community at Dodd Middle School. He designed and built helmet and bat racks to help keep the baseball dugout organized, with shelves for helmets and storage underneath for bats. Although he did not have carpentry experience, a teacher stepped in to mentor and guide him through the process.

“I never thought I could get Eagle Scout in the speed that I did,” Jacob said. “I learned that if you put your mind into something, you can get it done. That’s something my dad instilled in me. I had a great support system.”

Now in his first year at Holy Cross High School, Jacob says the school community has already made a strong impression. “I know everyone says it, but it’s just like a family. Everybody is cool with everybody. It’s easy to interact with everyone. Here, you really get to know people well. There are teachers and counselors who are there to help you.”

Although he has reached the pinnacle rank in scouting, Jacob is far from finished. He plans to remain active with his troop, pursue additional merit badges including Military Service and Metalworking, and continue exploring the outdoors. This summer, he is looking forward to water rafting and kayaking in Acadia National Park.