Watch NJ teacher save third grade student from choking in class

EAST ORANGE — A fast-thinking teacher has been hailed a hero, after she saved a third-grade boy who was choking on a water bottle cap during class.

JaNiece Jenkins is seen on security camera footage from East Orange Community Charter School, helping her student and dislodging the cap by performing the "Heimlich maneuver."

The boy is seen trying to open up a bottle of water with his teeth — as the water then forcefully streams out, sending the cap into his throat.

NJ hero teacher (courtesy East Orange Community Charter School) (1)

"Robert tried to get it out on his own, as he ran to the back of the classroom but he realized he could not breathe and he quickly ran to his teacher," a spokesperson for the school said.

NJ hero teacher (courtesy East Orange Community Charter School)

Jenkins sprang calmly into action and was able to dislodge the cap, as seen in the video footage, courtesy East Orange Community Charter School:

Her quick reaction has been cheered well beyond New Jersey, as footage from the moment has gone viral on social media.

Erin Vogt is a reporter and anchor for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach her at erin.vogt@townsquaremedia.com

Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.

School aid for all New Jersey districts for 2022-23

The state Department of Education announced district-level school aid figures for the 2022-23 school year on Thursday, March 10, 2022. They're listed below, alphabetically by county. For additional details from the NJDOE, including specific categories of aid, click here.

Gallery Credit: Michael Symons

NJ county fairs are back! Check out the 2023 summer schedule

A current list of county fairs happening across the Garden State for 2023. From rides, food, animals, and hot air balloons, each county fair has something unique to offer.

(Fairs are listed in geographical order from South NJ to North NJ)

Gallery Credit: Mike Brant

These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:

Gallery Credit: Jordan Jansson

New Jersey Diners that are open 24/7

Hours as of September 2024

Gallery Credit: Jordan Jansson, Mike Brant

2021 NJ property taxes: See how your town compares

Find your municipality in this alphabetical list to see how its average property tax bill for 2021 compares to others. You can also see how much the average bill changed from 2020. For an interactive map version, click here. And for the full analysis by New Jersey 101.5, read this story.

Gallery Credit: Michael Symons/Sergio Bichao