Hi Laura and welcome.
Yes, things are done different here. While permits can be obtained to attend a different school than that in your local school district, there has to be good reason for a district to "release" you.
If you are located on the Ventura County side of Westlake Village, give Conejo Valley Schools a call (see the link at the upper left corner). If you are on the Los Angeles County side, give Las Virgenes schools a call. Either will be able to articulate your options, but in general, your home's location determines which school you go to.
Hope that helps,
Neil