Jonathan E. Bettis

Jonathan Bettis serves as a Contract Specialist within the Contracts and Acquisitions Management unit of the U.S. Department of Education, where he manages the full lifecycle of professional services acquisitions to advance federal education policy and institutional capacity. His portfolio centers on evidence-based research, regulatory compliance, and infrastructure support for federal student aid and data systems. Bettis specializes in complex service contracts requiring technical expertise in social science research, educational policy analysis, and management consulting, ensuring alignment with federal acquisition regulations and strategic agency priorities. He plays a critical role in translating educational mission needs into compliant, performance-based procurement actions that support long-term national education goals. Bettis maintains a consistent working relationship with LPE-STRATEGIES LLC, a primary contractor delivering strategic advisory and research services to the agency. His procurement patterns reflect a preference for established, high-capacity vendors with demonstrated expertise in education policy and data systems, though he also engages other qualified firms through competitive solicitations. His contracting approach emphasizes clear performance metrics, deliverable-based milestones, and rigorous contractor performance evaluations to ensure accountability and mission alignment. While the majority of his acquisitions—88.2%—are conducted without set-asides, Bettis maintains a measurable commitment to small business participation, with 11.8% of his awards directed toward 8(a) and Total Small Business Set-Aside programs under FAR 19.5. This reflects a balanced approach that prioritizes competition and capability while actively fostering socioeconomic opportunities for certified small businesses in the education services sector. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541720 (Research and Development in the Social Sciences and Humanities), followed by 611710 (Educational Support Services) and 541690 (Other Scientific and Technical Consulting Services). He routinely procures analytical studies, policy evaluations, training programs, and management consulting services that inform federal education strategy, strengthen institutional effectiveness, and support the modernization of national data systems.