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IDEA Public Schools wants to convert East Side Memorial High School into an in-district charter school. Parents, teachers and community members voiced their opinions on the potential move Monday night.

The action would put IDEA in charge of curriculum and hiring. According to officials, IDEA was created as a way to help battle educational deficiencies educators from Teach for America said they saw in their students. The program focuses on student achievement and college readiness.

Local teacher's union, Education Austin, opposes the IDEA partnership with AISD. Officials with the organization say the community needs more information on IDEA's plan for Austin teachers before the board makes a decision.

"We want a fair labor practice that offers contract protection for teachers and due process for classified," Co-President Ken Zarifus said.

Some Austin parents visited similar IDEA schools in San Antonio. They said the work being done in the organization’s classrooms better prepares students for college. They also say the
group will give AISD teachers a chance.

"We talked to the CEO. We talked to the headmaster of the school and everything. They assured us that they're going to give the Austin teachers first choice. All they have to do is fill out the application. If you meet the qualifications, you're in,” parent Rebecca Ledesma said. ”That's just like any other business, any other application you have for employment. Why are these teachers so scared?"

The board will vote on the IDEA charter for East Side Memorial Dec. 12.