Which action is appropriate to maximize pupil safety during loading and unloading?

• A. The bus remains in gear and moves slowly.
• B. The bus is in park with the parking brake set; pupils board/alight under supervisor direction; halt and wait for signals; stay clear of traffic.
• C. The driver drives away as soon as a pupil boards.
• D. The bus horn is used to guide pupils.

Answer: (B)

During loading and unloading, the priority is to keep the bus stationary, secure, and under supervision so no one is at risk of moving with the vehicle. Putting the bus in park with the parking brake set prevents any unintended rollaways. Having pupils board and alight under the supervisor’s direction ensures orderly movement, spacing, and that everyone is accounted for before the bus moves again. Halting and waiting for signals gives the driver or crossing supervisor a clear indication that it’s safe to proceed, and staying clear of traffic reduces the chance of a pupil stepping into the roadway or being hit by passing vehicles.

Driving away as soon as a pupil boards or using the horn to guide students introduces unnecessary risk and confusion, which is why those options are not appropriate.