Triage, Engagement, and Support Team (TEST)

The Chaffey College Triage, Engagement, and Support Team (TEST) is a collaborative team embedded within the Chaffey College Police Department and managed by the Chief of Police, Mike Mason. The team was developed to provide early intervention, crisis response, and short-term support to individuals who may need assistance while attending Chaffey College.

TEST model is a co-response approach, which brings together a Chaffey College Police Officer and a San Bernardino County Social Worker II. This partnership allows the team to address concerns from a public-safety and social- services perspective, providing a more comprehensive response to individuals experiencing a crisis or other challenges.

The TEST model allows the team to intervene during an immediate crisis while also developing short-term case-management plans when appropriate. The team also assists with the detection and early intervention for individuals who may be on a potential path toward violence. An important goal is to address concerns before they escalate, reduce repeated encounters with Campus Police, and potentially increase opportunities for diversion from the criminal justice system when appropriate.

One of the strengths of the TEST program is its multidisciplinary and community-based approach. The team works in partnership with the San Bernardino County Behavioral Health Department and the Chaffey College Connects Team to address mental-health and safety concerns. This collaboration is intended to support student success while enhancing campus safety.

Ultimately, the TEST team’s value is measured not only by the number of incidents or responses, but also by its ability to intervene, connect, reduce and contribute to a safer and more supportive college community.