(19) Problem Solving Teams (PST). By August 15, 2011, all public schools in Alabama will be required to implement the PST model.

• (a) Definitions.
• (1) The Problem Solving Teams (PST) is a model to guide general education intervention services for all students who have academic and /or behavioral difficulties. The PST is central to the school's successful implementation of the Response to Instruction (RtI) framework.
• (2) Response to instruction (RtI). Response to instruction (RtI) refers to an instructional framework that promotes a well-integrated system connecting general, gifted, supplemental, and special education services in providing high-quality, Standard-based instruction and intervention that is matched to students' academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs. RtI combines core instruction, assessment, and intervention with a multi-tiered system to increase student achievement and reduce behavior problems.
• (b) Decisions regarding the number of PSTs needed by a school should be determined at the school level; however, a minimum of one PST per school is required to review data-based documentation regarding students' progress regularly, advise teachers on specific interventions matched to student needs, and communicate with parents regarding student intervention needs being provided.
• (c) The Problem Solving Teams will analyze screening and progress-monitoring data to assist teachers in planning and implementing appropriate instruction and evidence-based interventions for all students with academic and/or behavioral difficulties, including those students who exhibit the characteristics of dyslexia.

(a) To the extent that the Legislature shall appropriate funds, or to the extent that any local board may provide funds from other sources, each school system shall implement the following Standard and policies for programs in an effort to prevent student suicide:

• (1) Foster individual, family, and group counseling services related to suicide prevention.
• (2) Make referral, crisis intervention, and other related information available for students, parents, and school personnel.
• (3) Foster training for school personnel who are responsible for counseling and supervising students.
• (4) Increase student awareness of the relationship between drug and alcohol use and suicide.
• (5) Educate students in recognizing signs of suicidal tendencies and other facts and warning signs of suicide.
• (6) Inform students of available community suicide prevention services.