(a)
(1) All vehicles used for the transportation of pupils to or from any school shall have a sign on the front and on the rear of the vehicle showing the words “SCHOOL BUS”, and the words shall be plainly readable in letters not less than eight inches (8") in height.
(2) When a school bus is being operated upon a highway for purposes other than the actual transportation of children either to or from school, all markings thereon indicating “SCHOOL BUS” shall be covered or concealed.
(b) Every school bus shall be in the color officially designated by the State Board of Education.
(c)
(1)
(A) The board is vested with full authority and responsibility to prescribe by rule the number and location and other specifications for alternating red warning lights on school buses operated in this state.
(B) Alternating red warning lights shall be operating at all times when the buses are loading or unloading school children but at no other time.
(2) It shall be the duty of the operator of every school bus operated in this state to conduct an inspection before each trip begins to see that all identification and safety devices required by this section or required by rule of the board are displayed on the vehicle in the manner required, and it is unlawful for any person to operate a school bus in this state unless identification and safety devices are properly displayed and in proper working order.