Topeka ? A group that promotes Kansas heritage is sponsoring an essay contest to encourage students to express pride in the state.

The contest is open to students in grades eight through 12. The top prize is $100, and entries are limited to 250 words.

The Native Sons and Daughters of Kansas will announce the winners at a banquet in Topeka on Jan. 28, 2011 — one day before the 150th anniversary of the state’s admission to the union.

Entries must be e-mailed by Dec. 1 to the executive director of the Kansas State Historical Society. The e-mail address is membership@kshs.org.