How often are inspections of school buses conducted to ensure safety for transporting students?

School buses are required to undergo inspections one or more times a year to ensure they are maintained in a state of safety and functionality for transporting students. These inspections are critical for identifying any mechanical or structural issues that could compromise the bus's safety.

Regular inspections play a vital role in enhancing the safety of school transportation, as they can help catch problems early—such as brake issues, tire wear, and emergency exit functionality—that could pose significant risks if left unchecked. The frequency of at least once a year guarantees that buses remain in good operating condition to protect the children who ride them.

The other options suggest a frequency that is either too infrequent or does not reflect the typical regulatory standards in many jurisdictions concerning school bus safety inspections. Therefore, the requirement of one or more inspections annually strikes an appropriate balance between ensuring safety and managing maintenance schedules for school districts.