Building Safer Virtual Worlds for K–12, and the Future of Online School with Topia’s CTO

In this episode of Chalk and Code, host Theron Davis sits down with Christopher Psiaki, Chief Technology Officer of Topia Interactive, to explore how spatial media and real-time communication can make online learning feel more humanTopia is a cloud-based spatial media platform where participants move through persistent, customizable worlds, and connect through proximity-based audio and video. Christopher shares how his background in software development and game-inspired world-building shaped Topia’s technical direction, and why human connection remains central to the platform’s design.The conversation covers what makes spatial communication different from traditional video calls, how Topia supports virtual classrooms and large-group instruction, and how K–12 safety, moderation, and access controls are built into district and partner implementations. Christopher also discusses the emerging creator economy for educators, the importance of scalable infrastructure, and the real questions edtech teams must solve as AI becomes part of learning environments.Key Moments01:10 Christopher’s path into software and startups05:46 Real-time spatial communication, explained07:57 Broadcasting, screen sharing, and running large sessions10:57 Designing for K–12 safety, privacy, and moderation13:41 What implementation looks like with virtual schooling partners15:39 SchoolSpace for districts, and how it differs18:05 LMS integrations, LTI 1.3, and chaperone mode21:06 Engagement without building an attention economy24:29 Unexpected student behaviors, and what they reveal27:59 Belonging, social connection, and student motivation32:09 Teacher-created worlds and sharing at scale36:16 Challenges ahead, cost, scale, and AI41:03 AI-driven historical NPCs, guardrails, and multiplayer context44:36 What edtech should talk more about, human connectionWhy You’ll Love This EpisodeThis conversation is a grounded look at what it takes to build virtual learning spaces that feel natural, engaging, and safe. If you’re thinking about community, student motivation, synchronous learning, or what AI could look like inside interactive environments, this episode offers a practical view from the technical leadership side.Connect with Christopher PsiakiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-psiaki-41275b15Website: https://topia.io/Connect with UsCompany’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flexion-inc Company Website: https://flexion.us/ If this conversation sparked a new idea or challenged your assumptions, share this episode with a colleague and subscribe for more thoughtful discussions at the intersection of learning, leadership, and educational technology.Join us next time on Chalk and Code, where the science of learning meets modern technology.