What is required of a school bus driver before proceeding after a stop where students are boarding or alighting?

Before a school bus driver can proceed after a stop where students are boarding or alighting, the most critical requirement is to check for passing vehicles. This step is essential for ensuring the safety of the students as they enter or exit the bus. School bus safety laws dictate that when the bus has its red lights flashing and the stop sign extended, all vehicles must stop. However, drivers must remain vigilant and check for any vehicles that might not adhere to this rule before moving.

While counting the number of students is an important practice for accountability and ensuring no students are left behind, and ensuring the doors are fully closed is necessary for the safety and security of the bus, the priority remains on confirming the area is safe before proceeding. Therefore, while options related to counting and door closure contribute to overall safety procedure, they are not the primary action required immediately prior to moving the bus after a stop when students are on or near the bus. The most pressing concern is always the surrounding traffic and ensuring it is safe to drive before allowing students to board or exit.