Which approach addresses behavioral issues by categorizing students based on risk?

The approach that addresses behavioral issues by categorizing students based on risk is the multi-tiered systems of support. This framework is designed to provide varying levels of support based on the individual needs of students. It typically consists of several tiers: universal interventions for all students, targeted interventions for those at risk, and intensive interventions for students with significant needs.

In a multi-tiered system, students are categorized according to their risk levels, which allows educators to implement appropriate interventions tailored to each group's needs. This tiered approach ensures that resources are allocated effectively and that interventions are evidence-based, leading to improved educational and behavioral outcomes.

Universal screening serves as a proactive measure to identify students who may need additional support, but it is only the initial step within the multi-tiered framework. Targeted interventions focus on specific groups identified as at risk but do not alone encompass the comprehensive categorization that the tiered system provides. Individualized learning plans are tailored for specific students but do not necessarily categorize students based on risk levels within a systematic framework.

Thus, the multi-tiered systems of support is the correct answer, as it encapsulates the systematic approach of categorizing students based on their behavioral risk levels for intervention purposes.