2.   The Legislature finds and declares that:

   a.   the public school system in this State is made more successful by the work of educational services professionals;

   b.   educational services professionals provide important services outside of the classroom environment that improve students' academic opportunities, workforce preparedness, and overall quality of life;

   c.   providing for local and Statewide recognition of outstanding educational services professionals will demonstrate our appreciation of their contributions and encourage others to strive for the same; and

   d.   the purpose of this act is to provide for Statewide awards and recognition of the excellence of current school district employees employed in a position requiring an educational services certificate.

   L.2003,c.216,s.2.