__________ is an act declared by statute to be a crime because it violates the standards of behavior expected of children.

A. Delinquency
B. Vandalism
C. Violating curfew
D. A status offense

is it A

The correct answer is D. A status offense.

To arrive at this answer, one must understand the concept of status offenses in the context of crimes committed by children. Status offenses refer to behaviors that are considered illegal specifically because of the individual's age or status as a minor. These offenses are not considered crimes if committed by adults.

Options A, B, and C (delinquency, vandalism, and violating curfew) can be categorized under the broader term of "status offenses." However, option D, which directly mentions "a status offense," is the most specific and accurate answer to the question.