Bus operators will often find it economical to convert retired buses to use as permanent training buses for driver training, rather than taking a regular service bus out of use. Some large operators also converted retired buses into tow bus vehicles, to act as tow trucks.
Explain to an 8 year old child that is not yet 49 tall that the safety equipment built into the vehicle is for adults  not children, and a child needs to continue to use the proper equipment (booster seat) so that the adult equipment will fit, and be able to protect, their bodies in the event of a crash.
After age 4 and 40+ pounds, children can ride in a booster seat with the adult lap and shoulder belt until the adult safety belt will fit them properly (usually when the child is 4'9 tall, 10 â 12 years old). MUST have a lap/shoulder belt to use a booster seat.