Who should a school bus driver report equipment defects to when parking?

When a school bus driver identifies equipment defects while parking, it is essential to report these issues to the principal. The principal typically oversees the safety and operation of the school, which includes ensuring that transportation is functioning properly. By reporting to the principal, the driver ensures that appropriate actions can be taken swiftly, either to arrange for necessary repairs or to keep the bus out of service until it is safe to operate again.

The other roles, while relevant to the school community, do not directly manage the day-to-day operations of the school bus or have the immediate authority to address safety issues. The mechanic may handle repairs but would not be the first point of contact for a driver in this scenario. Parents do not play a role in reporting equipment issues, and the school board, while important for policy and budgetary decisions, is not involved in the immediate handling of bus safety concerns. Thus, reporting to the principal is the most effective and appropriate course of action.