The Chinquapin School was founded in 1969 by Robert Moore, a former head of the English Department at St. John's School, and his wife Maxine, with the help of a grant from The Brown Foundation, Inc. The Moores saw the need to provide incentive for students who have high potential, but limited opportunities.

Chinquapin is a non-profit, college preparatory school, grades six through twelve, for economically disadvantaged youth from the Houston area. The 7th - 12th grade boys live on campus Monday through Friday, and the girls and 6th grade boys are transported daily.

"Quid Pro Quo" - Something for Something - is the Chinquapin motto and is lived daily as students give time and effort to the school in return for the opportunity to receive quality education in a caring, family-oriented environment. The purpose of the school is to produce responsible, educated citizens and leaders who can become positive role models in their community.