School districts that refuse to make available online their checkbook registers are being taken to task.

An editorial in The Grand Rapids Press said hold-out districts have the "wrong attitude" and should embrace transparency "at a time when citizens are rightfully vigilant about their money."

Heritage Newspapers in an editorial today said "Opening up the books in a manner suggested by the Mackinac Center can only help improve a school district's public image. But, more important, it's simply the right thing to do."

The Mackinac Center's "Show Michigan the Money" project has been advocating for spending transparency at all levels of government, including asking school districts to post spending details on their Web sites. Several districts have done so, including some in Kent County.

A full list of districts that are cooperating is available here.

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