Jr. High is too cramped to do anything about the situation.
But once your in high school theres lots of space to manuever. Join (Marching) band. Band geeks are well, geeks, but you have 80+ friends to hang out with and eat lunch with. Usualy theres a whole area that they eat together at. Pretty safe protection. Or you can go the other way of the Loner path. Just hang out in isolated areas. Surprisingly I've found ignoring people the best answer. However when it comes down to it, defend yourself. Don't be afraid to get in a fight if you Have too.