The Legislature finds that:
The quality of teaching in the public schools is of vital importance to the future of this state;
This state has a special interest in insuring that the induction of beginning teachers into their profession is conducive to their professional growth and development; and
The formal assignment of mentor teachers who have demonstrated mastery of teaching skills and subject matter knowledge should substantially improve the induction and professional growth of beginning teachers in this state, as well as provide mentor teachers with additional and valuable opportunities to enhance their own professional growth.