To analyze the given function \( y = -16t^2 + 40 \), we need to interpret it correctly in the context of the situation described.
In this formula:
- \( y \) represents the height (in feet) of the egg at any time \( t \) (in seconds) during its fall.
- The term \( -16t^2 \) represents the effect of gravity on the falling egg, which accelerates the egg downwards.
- The constant term \( 40 \) represents the initial height of the egg when it is dropped, which is the height of the school’s roof.
Therefore, the correct interpretation of the height of the school's roof is \( 40 \) feet.
So the answer is 40 feet.