The main conflict in Sideways Stories from Wayside School revolves around the unusual and often absurd situations that the students and teachers face at Wayside School. The school itself is a 30-story building with one classroom on each floor, which is already a strange setup. The stories are episodic, meaning each chapter focuses on a different character and their unique challenges or conflicts.
For example, one of the conflicts involves a student named Todd, who is always sent home early on the school bus because the teacher, Mrs. Jewls, misinterprets his behavior. Another conflict involves a student named Bebe, who is in a race to draw the fastest picture. These conflicts are often humorous and exaggerated, highlighting the quirky and unpredictable nature of the school and its inhabitants.
Overall, the conflict in Sideways Stories from Wayside School is not a single, overarching issue but rather a series of comical and bizarre challenges that the characters must navigate, making the book a collection of entertaining and imaginative tales.