Billy Joe “B.J.” Weiss has a contagious ambiance in his American Sign Language class that spills out into the hallway. Just spend a few moments outside his classroom and it will seep into your bones. Very few teachers make a classroom feel this way.

Because of this ambiance, Weiss, an adjunct Professor of American Sign Language, will receive the Starfish Award at the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) conference in Austin.

The Starfish Award was established as a way to honor a full- or part-time faculty member committed to helping students in a nurturing way. Students at Palo Alto College nominate their favorite teachers, and one is selected for the award.

“I loved his class,” said Belinda Pantoja, who nominated Weiss for the award. “He is a patient teacher and really takes the time and makes sure you learn it.”

Maggie Martinez, a student said, “I am really happy someone like B.J. received this award. I am sure B.J. will receive more awards in the future. He actually is into his work and makes you smile, not only on the outside, but the inside as well.”

Leandro M. Esparza, Director of Student Activities said, “The process unfortunately, only allows for one winner to be selected. Therefore, it just tells me that again we have a large number of faculty here at Palo Alto who go over and above the call of duty in assisting students, in really caring for the students and really nurturing the whole essence of what education is all about”.

Esparza makes sure all the names selected are forwarded to the President and mentioned again at the Fall faculty convocation when the winner is announced because, “There's not a doubt in my mind that every single one of these nominees are equally deserving.”

“I did not expect this award and feel honored,” said Weiss, who has been at Palo Alto four years.

“He's an excellent teacher,” said Esteban Brown, a student. “He showed me how to acquire better technique skills with hand and eye coordination.”

Weiss was born deaf. His mother contracted German Measles (rubella) while she was pregnant with him. Weiss, who is single and 35 years old, has two brothers and one sister who hear just fine.

“The students who make the decision to continue on and become interpreters for Sign Language make me the proudest,” said Weiss. “I will never forget them. My motivation comes from my students, and I love my students.”

Natonsha Guidry, a second semester student who is majoring in Sign Language, said, “In the beginner's class, time passes by so fast. I think he's very funny too and if he has a bad day, you can never tell.”

Weiss graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Dramatic Production and Performance from Gallaudet University, which is the only liberal arts college in the world for the deaf and is located in Washington, D.C. His goal is to return to school and earn a Master's Degree beginning this Fall.

“One of the best times of my life focuses on protesting at Gallaudet University,” said Weiss. The students demanded a deaf president and their demands were met.

“The obstacles of discrimination I will continue to see in my life,” said Weiss. “I see many small-minded people who are not willing to open up for disabled people.”

Carolyn DeLecour, Interim Chairperson and Instructor of Speech said, “He's such a delightful individual. I just know that he brings a lot of life and energy to his classes and that is representative of the fact that he got the Starfish Award from his students. He's very dedicated. He works hard, and, obviously, the students love him.”

Weiss works full time as a Personal Social Adjustment Trainer at Methodist Family and Rehabilitation Services. Here, he helps people who are deaf and who need to learn skills related to their job or how to live independently.

Ann Turner, Associate Professor of Theatre and Speech said, “He's always friendly and lively, like when you are walking down the hall and Billy Joe says `Hi' to you. There is always a twinkle in his eye. He's a very warm, caring passionate teacher— very, very knowledgeable— he just really knows his stuff.”

Weiss describes himself as open-minded, spiritual and eager to learn. English is his second language; Sign Language is his first. To talk to Weiss, just write on paper. It's that simple to communicate with him. He tries to simplify his life and he hates complicated situations or things.

“No need for a tombstone,” Weiss said. “I am an environmental type of a person and will donate my organs to people who need them. After that, throw what's left in the ocean and let the sharks eat me. Definitely, this will make me happy!”