Each year high schools in the state of Washington graduate a significant number of students who have distinguished themselves through outstanding academic achievement. The purpose of RCW
28A.600.100 through
28A.600.150 is to establish a consistent and uniform program which will recognize and honor the accomplishments of these students; encourage and facilitate privately funded scholarship awards among them; stimulate the recruitment of outstanding students to Washington public and private colleges and universities; and allow educational and legislative leaders, as well as the governor, to reaffirm the importance of educational excellence to the future of this state.