Why Are School Buses Yellow?

The video explains the history and reasoning behind the yellow color of school buses. Initially, there were no regulations, and buses came in various colors. Frank Sierra, a professor, organized a conference in 1939 to standardize school bus features, including color. Yellow was chosen for its high visibility and contrast with black lettering, making it easy to see in various weather conditions. Although not federally mandated, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends this color. Today, 480,000 school buses in the US maintain this standard for safety and consistency.

What was one of the reasons some school buses were painted red, white, and blue?

• To match the national flag

• To promote school spirit

• To instill patriotism

• To differentiate from public buses

Who was responsible for organizing the conference that led to the standardization of school bus regulations?

• Thomas Edison

• Henry Ford

• John Dewey

• Frank Sierra

What was a key factor in choosing yellow as the color for school buses?

• Yellow was the most popular color at the time

• Black letters are easiest to read on yellow

• Yellow is a calming color

• It was the cheapest paint available

What is the official name given to the yellow color used for school buses?

• Sunshine Yellow

• National School Bus Glossy Yellow

• Bright Yellow

• Safety Yellow

Is it a federal requirement for all school buses to be painted yellow?

• Yes, but only in certain states

• No, it is not recommended

• No, but it is recommended

• Yes, it is mandatory