Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ (7,895)
2012 activity	1,526
Ending balance	(6,369)
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	(5,789)
2012 activity	5,696
Ending balance	(93)
Pension Adjustment
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	(195)
2012 activity	(130)
Ending balance	(325)
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	(1,911)
2012 activity	(4,040)
Ending balance	$ (5,951)