O'QUINN Schools
Our History
When Linda O'Quinn founded the school in 1971, we quickly became the premier educational institution for children ages 2-5. O'Quinn Schools joined the Porter-Gaud Family in 2008, and this has provided the school even more opportunities for our students as they prepare for their educational careers.
A collaborative and transparent process
Linda Mays O’Quinn began small with a large vision. Beginning with a small group of children coming to her home on James Island, Mrs. O’Quinn understood the importance of introducing academic excellence in a nurturing environment at a young age, educating the whole child. This understanding led to an extremely well-developed and successful curriculum, growing in popularity throughout the Charleston area.
After relocating several times to accommodate increasing enrollment, in 1982 Mrs. O’Quinn purchased land on Harborview Road on James Island and built the original O’Quinn School. This facility is still in use today. With many families making the long drive from Mount Pleasant to attend what was now a firmly established preschool and kindergarten program, Mrs. O’Quinn bought land on Houston Northcutt in Mount Pleasant and built her second school. Opening in 1987, the Mount Pleasant O’Quinn School was quickly filled to capacity and enjoyed a reputation of excellence in educating young children east of the Cooper River.
As Mrs. O’Quinn began considering retirement, she was approached by Porter-Gaud School as a prospective buyer of both campuses. Knowing that academic excellence and a well-rounded education were proven components of this 1st through 12th grade private school, she ardently delivered her lifetime endeavor into the hands of Porter-Gaud in 2008, creating The O’Quinn Schools of Porter-Gaud. This acquisition continues to adhere to Mrs. O’Quinn’s original philosophy, providing a solid readiness for academic success that lasts a lifetime.
