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The Making of a MAD Man: How a Former Inner-City Principal was Shaped to Serve Through Motivation, Adversity, & Determination
Mateen Ajala Diop's life was a rollercoaster of one misfortune after another. He had to endure an abusive stepfather who repeatedly raped his older sister from a very young age. To escape his stepfather, Mateen's mother took him and his sister away. This move saw Mateen end up in Alamo Heights, San Antonio, where he constantly endured racist taunting and abuse. With increasing exposure to racism and racial discrimination, Mateen coasted through life without any guidance or prospects until he had a moment of clarity in the military. What was this moment about, and how did it alter Mateen's life? This autobiography is the story of one man's battle against all odds for the educational emancipation of himself and his community.
137 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 21, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
March 1, 2021
Full disclosure--- I am the author- so what do you think I will say? But, I really did enjoy writing this book and it put a bow around 24 years in education. There are so many messages I tried to convey in this book, to different audiences. If you are a teacher, administrator, coach, entrepreneur, parent, or central office administrator- this book is for you. If you simply care about neighborhood schools, please give it a read and let me know your thoughts. Thanks to everyone for submitting your comments- and I will take them all!
April 2, 2024
The book is a captivating read that resonated deeply with me as an Air Force service member from the inner city with a love for basketball. The author's depiction of perseverance in challenging educational environments is inspiring, highlighting the importance of resilience and self-belief, especially for inner-city youth. His journey is profoundly relatable and offers valuable insights into overcoming challenges and fostering positive change within often overlooked communities. Highly recommended for those seeking motivation and personal growth.
August 8, 2021
A touching true story of a difficult life made productive by hard work and perseverance. Great for inner city school administrators and people looking for inspiration
March 15, 2021
A book with lessons for all
Dr. Mateen Diop deserves attention, as he skilfully traces his path from inner-city child to inner-city high school principal in one of the most economically segregated cities in the United States.
His childhood experience, his complicated relationship with his family, his determination to complete his higher education, and his encounters with blatant racism and adversity contribute to his success in his career and as a human being who cares deeply about helping all students succeed.
He talks straight with openness and brutal honesty - sharing good and bad experiences authentically. The book reads as if it is a face-to-face conversation with Dr. Diop - a role model and inspiration for all.
Dr. Mateen Diop deserves attention, as he skilfully traces his path from inner-city child to inner-city high school principal in one of the most economically segregated cities in the United States.
His childhood experience, his complicated relationship with his family, his determination to complete his higher education, and his encounters with blatant racism and adversity contribute to his success in his career and as a human being who cares deeply about helping all students succeed.
He talks straight with openness and brutal honesty - sharing good and bad experiences authentically. The book reads as if it is a face-to-face conversation with Dr. Diop - a role model and inspiration for all.
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews