One group of graduates that may face tough times from the start will receive teaching credentials next month. Elementary and secondary teaching positions in California are available but may not be filled because of the state's fiscal woes. Wendy Carlson, a wife and mother who came back to school and who will get her credential at UC Davis, says she wants desperately to be a high school science teacher near her home in Placer County. "The school districts are just in a holding pattern until the state budget is finalized," says Carlson. "I'm not optimistic about securing a teaching position now or even in the near future." Teresa Dyer, who will receive her math teaching credential in graduation ceremonies next month, says she will go anywhere in California to find a full-time high school teaching post. Dyer is setting her sights on being a substitute teacher until the state deals with its current deficit. Traditionally, UC Davis has been able to place 85 percent of its teacher-education graduates in full-time positions, according to Marge Lee, coordinator of education and graduation placement for the campus Internship and Career Center. "Our rate of placement so far has been dismal. Of the l08 students scheduled to receive their teaching credentials, only one has received a full-time appointment," says Lee.