D16 never did find friends that were much like her in middle school. I think her first true, deep connection with other kids came when she was invited to join Cogito, a chat/forum run by CTY. Although we live in the midwest, we had her NUMATS talent search scores sent to CTY as well so she would be registered with them if she ever wanted to attend their summer programs. They invited her to join this online group, and it was an absolute godsend for her socially.

In high school she is doing better, there is a new girl in her class who started with them last year; she is very bright and has become a very close friend. D spends less time with her Cogito friends now, but still chats with them sometimes. That virtual community was one of the best things that ever happened to her, I think.