2018 Iowa investigations

In November 2018, KCCI reported that Iowa officials were investigating complaints involving restraints, assault, and sexual abuse at Woodward Academy and Clarinda Academy. The report said the inquiries involved Iowa's human services and inspections agencies.

2025 juvenile case reporting

In 2025, KCCI reported on a juvenile sex-abuse case tied to Woodward Academy and concerns from the Woodward police chief that the case might not go to trial. The report concerned criminal proceedings and should not be read as a finding against every youth or staff member at the facility.