Abstract
The current educational crisis reflects a general cultural, political, and moral or "spiritual" crisis. Within this environment the role of astronomy education in schools is crucial. After identifying the problems we face while teaching astronomy, l offer a number of proposals for teaching astronomy in a modem classroom that build on the problem of light pollution. This problem exists nearly everywhere and is still growing rapidly. Maintaining dark skies not only at prime astronomical locations but also elsewhere depends on the awareness of the public, particularly of key decision-makers, including lighting engineers. Continual promotion of awareness of light pollution and its effects is necessary. If we wish to preserve the astronomical environment, we must promote effective education with respect to this problem.
