MASP is affiliated with the National Association of School Psychologists. A Brief for Educational Leadership Copyright Missouri Association of School Psychologists 2010 Questions or comments? Contact the web master. The Need As we begin the 21st century, the United States and the State of Missouri are undergoing tremendous social, economic, and emotional changes.   Emerging trends toward providing increased accountability and expanded services to children with and without identified disabilities, such as the Missouri Assessment Program and The No Child Left Behind Act, continue to emphasize the need for School Psychologists and their expertise. New problems regarding fear of terrorism, as well as continuing struggles with violence in the home, schools, and community, divorce, homelessness, teen suicide, substance abuse, and teen pregnancy must be addressed by trained professionals in order for children to be able to learn while at school.  The Missouri Association of School Psychologists (MASP) believes that School Psychologists are well suited to address these problems. What is School Psychology? School Psychologists receive specialized training in both psychology and education that provides the unique ability to work within the schools, as well as collaboratively with community agencies, to address childrens needs.  They make use of their knowledge of psychology, child and adolescent development, and educational research to help confront many problems encountered by children, teachers, parents, and communities. SHOP MASP!