A lighting system has a twist-lock lighting controller that is electrically coupled to at least one light source. The twist-lock lighting controller has a translucent cover in which an optical sensor is positioned to sense ambient light for controlling the light source. A shade element having a canopy is positioned on the twist-lock lighting controller such that the canopy blocks direct sunlight from entering the twist-lock lighting controller through the translucent cover, thereby significantly reducing operating temperatures within the twist-lock lighting controller.