In my view your use of a small scriptlet to access a static property is perfectly fine. JSTL tags don't really work well with static methods or properties, and using a scriptlet is the most intuitive way to access them that involves the least amount of coding. As with anything, the "No Scriptlets" mandate can be taken to an extreme and get in the way of doing things in the most effective and efficient way.
this is where JSTL implicit objects come into play. you can use the 'sessionScope' object rather than defining the bean. the only trick is that you CANNOT use the constant variable as your 'getter' and must use the value of the static constant. this assumes you are using JSTL.
-/a<br />certified slacker...yes, my last name is 'do' - <a href="http://www.luckycouple.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">luckycouple.com</a>
With a little knowledge, a cast iron skillet is non-stick and lasts a lifetime.