Elijah Stroud Middle School 353 is a safe school where students take trips around the city, and are mentored by pillars of their community. Despite its small size, students participate in music, dance, and media arts. Inspirational Black leaders frequently visit the school, such as a female judge from the New York State Court system, mentors from the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives. Photos on the school’s Twitter account @MS353Brooklyn show students celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, as well as other cultural activities. Students take lots of trips, including cruising the Hudson River on the Circle Line, and visiting the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut and Howard University in Maryland. Other trips include the American Museum of Natural History, NY Botanical Gardens and the Staten Island Zoo. Students take advantage of the New York Edge After-school program from 2:40 to 5:45 p.m. every day. Extra tutoring and small group instruction is also available.