What is the Massachusetts policy on using handheld devices while driving a school bus?

• A. Allowed if you are at a stop and not moving.
• B. Generally prohibited to use handheld devices while driving; use hands-free or non-distracting methods; follow district policy.
• C. Handheld devices are allowed if the student is quiet.
• D. Only emergency calls are allowed.

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is that school bus drivers must avoid distractions from handheld devices while operating the bus. Massachusetts policy emphasizes driver focus and safety, so using a handheld device while driving is generally prohibited. Instead, drivers should rely on hands-free methods or other non-distracting ways to communicate, and they must follow their district’s specific rules, which may add additional restrictions. This combination—hands-free usage and district policy—best reflects the safety standard and potential overrides or specifics that districts may implement.

Other options imply you can use a handheld device at certain times (like when stopped, depending on student noise, or only for emergencies), which conflicts with the broad safety rule that driving requires full attention and handheld use is not allowed.