Howe Military Academy officials explain closing decision

HOWE, Ind.--- The Howe Military Academy closing came after 135 years of the school being open, which could not withstand financial hurdles.

Howe Military Academy President, Dr. Thomas L. Tate, said the school has seen positive changes in recent years, but their efforts to keep the school open was a little too late.

There were a range of reasons the school couldn’t keep going.

“Physical challenges ranging from an aging campus, small class sizes, highly educated and qualified faculty and staff and robust programming, student opportunities come in a really high cost,” said Colonel Tate. "One that we can simply no longer support.”

When ABC57 asked if there were any last ditch ideas to keep the school open Colonel Tate said they have been looking into various options.

Right now the plan is to shut down for good after graduation this spring.

“We even looked at the charter school option,” said Colonial Tate. "And I talked to experts in the field in military charter schools.”

The school currently has 75 enrolled cadets and says it will work with students and parents to transition them to other military schools.

The president of the school said plans for the 100-acre LaGrange County campus have not been made yet.