As you know, I have to start my Creole lessons over. But do you think I should learn French simultaneously or at least pursue French at some point since Haitians also speak it? Would learning French help me with the Creole at all or vice versa?

No, that would not be a good reason to learn French.  French and Haitian Creole are two very different languages – the grammar and spellings are totally different.  Learning French will not help you to learn Haitian Creole any better.  You’ve been doing well so far. So keep at it :)

Haitian Creole ↔ English Reference, Look up Haitian Creole and English Words