What is the safe procedure when students must cross the road to board or after leaving the bus?

Students who must cross the roadway should always cross in front of the bus, at least 10 feet (about 10 giant steps) ahead so they remain in the driver's line of sight, and only on the driver's signal that it is safe. They should never cross behind the bus, where the driver cannot see them and where they are exposed to traffic. The driver activates the red flashing lights and stop arm, counts the students, makes sure all who must cross have done so and are accounted for, and checks that traffic has stopped before signaling. Keeping crossing students visible and controlled is one of the most critical school bus safety procedures.