I agree: If you are taking a class in python, then its really better to first ground yourself in python. Python is also a great first language to learn. But some people find good books really useful. Here are two:

https://greenteapress.com/wp/think-python-2e/

https://automatetheboringstuff.com/

So I'm apprehensive about diving into Python and not grounding myself or exposing myself to functional disciplines.

I wouldn’t be. You can learn FP at the start of 2020.