Our Team
Raymond D. Appleberry Jr. M.Ed., C.A.S.
Raymond D. Appleberry Jr. is a highly regarded consultant, speaker, and leader with over two decades of experience across diverse roles. He serves as the Special Education Coordinator of Social & Emotional Development and spearheads multiple district committees and program initiatives. Additionally, Raymond co-founded Rising Phoenix Training & Consulting LLC. He holds certifications in Crisis Management, Experiential Learning, Love & Logic, and Reclaiming Youth at Risk. Raymond's impactful contributions to the education community have earned him accolades, such as the 2013 Teacher of The Year and the Kids Magic Award. He is renowned for his dedication to bridging research with practical application, profoundly impacting students, parents, and educators nationally. Raymond remains committed to empowering individuals and enhancing the educational experiences of all stakeholders by fostering connections and capitalizing on every opportunity for growth and development.
Lynne M. Roland M.Ed., L.P.C.
Ms. Roland has worked with troubled youth, families and educators for over 25 years. As a therapist, she adds a very personal and in-depth level to her trainings. "My work with troubled youth and children has always been relationship centered. Developing trust whether in the counseling setting, classroom setting, or during crisis has always been my go-to strategy. Only then can dialogue be opened to discuss thoughts and feelings behind the behaviors. Using honesty, vulnerability, and respect, while honoring choice, free will and self-determination has helped me assist students, staff and families in making strides and aim toward positive developmental growth and achievement." Lynne has a passion for training, teaching and consulting providers who service troubled youth. Her trainings are engaging, inspiring, memorable, and most of all fun!
Brian P. Hopkins C.A.S.
Brian Hopkins is currently a Rising Phoenix Co-founder and Special Education Facilitator. In the last 13 years Brian has worked in multiple education settings and leadership roles with children pre-k-12th grade and with students postsecondary. He has served as a Behavior Interventionist, Behavior Specialist, Special Ed. Teacher, Paraprofessional, and Substitute Teacher. Prior to working in education, Brian served as a Childcare Director and Childcare Counselor. He has provided consultation and training for administrators, behavior specialists, counselors, assessment staff, teachers, transportation staff, and paraprofessionals specializing in: The Circle of Courage, Love & Logic, Crisis Management, Experiential Learning, PBIS, Restorative Practices, Classroom Management, Re-Ed Philosophy, Emotional Poverty, and IEP Development.