Each of the grade 6 and 7 contests consists of 40 written multiple-choice questions to be answered in 30 minutes. On each three-page contest, the questions on the 1st page are generally straightforward, those on the 2nd page are moderate in difficulty, and those on the 3rd page are more difficult. Calculator use is permitted (each student must supply his own calculator).

California Math League is part of The Math Leagues, which sponsors math contests annually for some one million students from the United States and Canada. Every contest has questions from various areas of mathematics. The goal is to encourage student interest and confidence in mathematics through solving worthwhile problems. Many students first develop an interest in mathematics through problem-solving activities such as these contests. Schools compete in statewide or multistate league competitions.

Math League contests challenge students and schools in interschool league competitions. Students in each league compete for the highest scores, while schools compete for the highest team score: the total of the top 5 scores in each school. The team score and names are sent to a national headquarters to see how the school has fared in comparison to other schools in the region, state and nation. There is a 6th grade Score Report and a 7th grade Score Report.

Each contest's questions cover material appropriate to each grade level. Questions may cover basic topics, plus exponents, fractions, reciprocals, decimals, rates, ratios, percents, angle measurement, perimeter, area, circumference, basic roots, patterns, sequences, integers, triangles and right triangles, and other topics, depending on the grade level. Detailed solution sheets demonstrate the methods used to solve each problem. These contests encourage a variety of problem-solving skills and methods, to improve students' abilities and understanding of mathematical connections, while having fun!

At Colina, the student with the highest first place winner in each grade level of the Cal Math League is honored with a framed certificate, presented at a PTSA meeting, and acknowledged at Awards Night, and earns a Best Buy gift certificate. Places 1, 2, and 3 are acknowledged on the website and on the school morning announcements on the P.A. system.