Berkeley schools, last minute options

Has anyone not gotten their first choice of school in the Berkeley School District and then decided not to do public school at the last minute? Is this possible with the timing of notifications, application processes, etc.? Did you home school? Is that possible? I'm really dreading having so little say in the assigned school...and likely being assigned a school across town. It's great that the schools are equitable, but I love the idea of a neighborhood school...walking to the one closest to you and getting to know the neighborhood kids. Advice from other Berkeley families who have had similar concerns...and who have come up with alternatives? What did you do? Thanks!

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In response to one of your questions, BUSD's independent study program supports homeschooling families, K through 12:  http://www.berkeleyschools.net/schools/independent-study/  We're a long-time (happy) BUSD family, and we haven't done homeschooling.  But we went to a meeting about the independent study program earlier this month at which they mentioned the homeschooling resources.  The independent study program in general looks great.

I know that this isn't really answering your question, but all of the BUSD elementary schools are terrific and even if you have to schlepp across town, I think you'll be happy with the school your child is assigned. Plus, it's free.