STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Change in fair value of interest rate and cross currency interest rate swaps, net of tax	$ (1,146)	$ (748)
Prior Service Cost Accrual (including amortization) on Defined Benefit Plan, net of tax	(74)	(273)
Foreign-currency translation adjustment	(31,962)	(21,894)
Balance at August 31, 2012 and 2011	$ (33,182)	$ (22,915)