Easier to get into OUSD in 1st grade?

We have no neighborhood priority for any of the schools we're hoping for so are considering private for K and trying the lottery again for 1st. Anyone have experience getting into a not-your-neighborhood school in 1st grade? Is it easier/less stressful than applying for K?

Parent Replies

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Kindergarten spots open up even in high-demand schools if you are patient. It can happen as late as the second week of school.

We applied to an out of area school in 1st grade and got in 3 weeks into the school year.  We ended up not taking the spot since our child was so stressed out about switching schools. If you have an easy-going kid then it can be a definite option.  I am not sure if it is an easier lottery in 1st grade. We applied the year before when everyone applies and got I think number 18 on the waitlist. Then all throughout the summer, I watched our number drop.  School started and we were I think number 4 on the waitlist. Three weeks in we dropped to number 1 and they called us to ask if we wanted the spot.  Good luck-I know how stressful it can be for families dealing with this.