The main concern of critics of the phone system is that it's not conducive to the learning environment to which St. Paul's is dedicated. There is the fear that the phones will make students anti-social and uncommunicative. Another issue is the expense. In response to this criticism, advocates for the phones feel that the students will not become reclusive or anti-social by being able to use a phone instead of personal interaction.
Faculty members have strong opinions regarding the use of phones as well.
Mr. Ian Torney feels that the Administration must take a critical stance on this new benefit in order to ensure that the phones are used properly. However, he believes that phones are a beneficial addition to the School in that they are able to facilitate some aspects of teaching. A concern of many faculty members is that the new phones will be abused by the students. However, despite the faculty's concern, the students feel that the phones are being used properly and are serving their purpose. Mr. Torney says he has seen no sign of any misuse of phones.