When should a school bus driver use an approved hand-held stop sign while escorting students?

The use of an approved hand-held stop sign by a school bus driver while escorting students is essential for ensuring the safety of all pupils crossing the roadway. This device serves as a clear and universal signal for vehicles to stop, allowing the driver to manage traffic effectively and protect children from potential hazards.

When the driver is escorting pupils across the roadway, regardless of their age or grade level, the hand-held stop sign acts as an additional safety measure. It communicates to oncoming drivers that they must halt their vehicles to ensure that the children can cross safely. This practice is vital, as children may not always be aware of their surroundings or the dangers posed by moving traffic.

While the other options mention specific age groups or scenarios, the correct choice encompasses all situations where any pupils are being escorted across the roadway. This broad application ensures that all children, regardless of their grade level, are afforded the same level of protection and that drivers are alerted whenever children are crossing, minimizing the risk of accidents.