Steve Jobs, former CEO of Apple Inc., passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2011. The cause of death is assumed to be his rare case of pancreatic cancer. He was 56.

“We are deeply saddened to announce that Steve Jobs passed away today,” reads a statement from Apple’s board of directors. “Steve’s brilliance, passion and energy were the source of countless innovations that enrich and improve all of our lives …”

Jobs is known for creating much of the technology used in modern day society. He invented a new portable music player called the iPod, redefined cellular phones by creating the iPhone, made the first successful legal method of downloading music through iTunes, thought of ways to make computers more convenient with iMacs, and invented the revolutionary iPad.

“Well yes it’s sad that a technology icon has now passed away,” says junior Trisha Bantigue, “but I’m pretty sure that the legend that he has embedded in his company, Apple, will continue to rise and furthermore amaze the world with new innovations.”

He has made a huge impact on education. Many of Jobs’ inventions are used at Southwest Career and Technical Academy. Almost every classroom has an iMac, juniors use iTouches, seniors use iPads, and his programs are being taught in our classrooms.

“He was a visionary role model in teamwork, work ethic, learning content that he has a passion for… so many things that we here at Southwest CTA model,” explains Web Design Program Leader Ms. Cindi Chang, “We utilize iPods, iPads, MacBooks, iMacs, learn graphic designs like Pixar and strive to do our best in everything put before us. Had he had the chance to walk the halls of our school….Steve Jobs would have been proud. He will be missed, but never forgotten.”

People may also share their thoughts on Jobs’ passing on Apple’s official website at www.apple.com/stevejobs/.