High school reading specialists possess specialized knowledge and have the potential to positively affect adolescent literacy growth. Research on the role of the high school reading specialist can create a better understanding of depth and breadth of that role and provide a comprehensive portrayal of the role. This outline lists literacy problems facing schools and the ways in which reading specialists can address these problems. It explains the importance of reading specialists and provides a review of literature on the subject. The outline also details the results of a study determining the role and influence of the reading specialist. It describes the role of the reading specialist inside the classroom, outside the classroom, and in helping teachers. (PM)