More Than a Coach—Mag’s Unbreakable Spirit Inspires Her Students | Dream Team
Quick Summary
Teaching through chemo. Smiling through pain. Showing up because her students inspire her as much as she inspires them. Coach Mag’s story is one of courage, heart and a school family that refused to let her fight alone.
Mountain View Elementary’s beloved physical education teacher, Magaly “Coach Mag” Barton, is known for the energy and joy she brings to her students every day. What many don’t see is the strength behind the scenes—she’s been teaching while undergoing treatment for stage 2 breast cancer.
During the school’s winter concert, the FOX 13 Dream Team, in partnership with Mountain America Credit Union, surprised her on stage to honor her resilience. They presented her with roses, a new sound system for her PE classes, gift cards, comfort items and $1,000 in cash to support her through her treatment.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Coach Mag said, “I feel so appreciated today. I never expected this.”
Her colleagues say the recognition is more than deserved. As the sole provider for her family—while enduring surgery, chemotherapy and many sleepless nights—she continues to show up because of her students. She’s out running obstacle courses, cheering kids on and creating a space where every child feels excited to move and play.
“She works so hard for these kids,” said her coworker. “She makes PE a place they want to be.”
The team at Mountain View Elementary has supported her every step of the way, helping her keep doing what she loves even on the hardest mornings. The FOX 13 Dream Team and Mountain America are proud to support amazing heroes in our community like Coach Mag.
