Abstract: A method and apparatus for answering a query based on a partial aggregation of a continuous data stream generated by a network element within a communication network are disclosed. For example, the method receives a template that contains one or more parameters for obtaining the partial aggregation of the continuous data stream, generates the query based on the template that is received, obtains the partial aggregation of the continuous data stream based on the template, provides an answer to the query based on the partial aggregation, repeats the obtaining and the providing based on a most recent partial aggregation until all data for a predefined time period is aggregated from the network element and transmits the answer to a controller to make an adjustment to the network element based on the answer.