When should the IPA alphabet be taught?

There is no evidence that the IPA alphabet should be taught in K-12 English language arts classes. The teaching of the IPA alphabet is primarily for foreign language and phonetics instruction, and is not necessary for standard English language fluency or literacy. While the IPA alphabet can be useful for those engaged in the study of linguistics or pronunciation, it is generally considered to be outside of the scope of everyday English language use and instruction.