In the midst of an increasingly hostile national environment for trans, nonbinary, and gender-expansive students, independent schools can provide vital affirming and safe havens for these students and their families. But how do independent schools move beyond “Everyone is welcome here!” to build intentionally supportive and affirming structures and systems, from the admission and retention process to the daily experience of students? After an overview of recent data and current challenges faced by trans/nonbinary students and their families, participants will engage with a case study demonstrating how one school identified challenge areas and pursued a range of practices to foster a deeper sense of safety and belonging for all students. Learning Objectives: Participants will 1) understand and be able to recognize challenges faced by gender diverse applicants and students, 2) be able to identify areas to strengthen around supporting trans/nonbinary applicants, families, and current students in their schools, and 3) learn new tools and resources for planning how to move forward in strengthening this often overlooked area of diversity.