Front brakes

Brake shoe material can vary greatly by axle and vehicle weight ratings. Heavier axles will typically have more metal in the linings to increase brake life and reduce stopping distance. A softer lining will most surely be more quiet, but trade offs are faster wear, more brake dust.

Common air drum brake shoes will be available in lighter weight linings.

At the end of the day if it stops good, noise can be considered normal given certain applications.

Schools buses as you already mentioned and refuse are typical noise makers.

 

I’ve heard that frozen roller pins cause squeaking. Last brake job I replaced all mine. Had to heat, pound, air chisel and sawzall them out. New bushings, anti seize, all were rolling freely, like brand new.. Put everything back together, still have one squeaking. Lol.