The reunion

Ethan was reunited with his mother, who has not been publicly named, at a hospital Tuesday. The grateful mother released a statement describing the reunion.

"I can't describe how incredible it is to hold him again," she said. "Ethan is safe and back in my arms -- and I owe it all to some of the most compassionate people on Earth."

His classmates can't wait to see him, said Parker, the principal.

"We are just looking forward to the time that he can come back in and we can wrap our arms around him and tell him we love him," he said.

Another person grateful was Aaron Poland, whose father was killed trying to protect Ethan and 21 other children on the school bus.

Ethan's made him feel like his dad's final route was finished, Aaron Poland said.

"Ethan was home with his mom. Safe," he said.

"My dad's key job was to make sure that every child was delivered safely to their parents."