From the Star-Ledger’s coverage of the “barrage of criticism” from Newark’s teachers in response to the district’s offer and Union President’s Joseph Del Grosso’ endorsement of a new contract that would substitute automatic salary increases for a system of merit pay:

Del Grosso tried to tame the crowd, repeatedly reminding the teachers to “be professional,” but he was frequently shouted over.
He also said the union could walk out on Tuesday if the contract is voted down, even though teacher strikes are illegal in New Jersey.
“This contract is a piece of garbage that will divide the union,” one teacher said. “Wait three years until we can get something better.”