We have taken our kids out of school for at least a week for the past 5 years and we will do it again this fall. Our DS will be a freshman and out DD will be in 7th. We have never had a problem, we always let the teachers know in advance so we can get any prework. However we never do it while on vacation, It is always done before we leave or after we get back. The kids know this and are prepared every year. They also understand that this a priveledge and that poor performance at school might prevent us from going each year. You can't beat the crowds when schoolis in session.