Hi

There is a lot here so I will break it down

I have a Taylor Big Baby E -  good sized guitar to start with

Started classes on this site the end of September. - You are just starting - it is common to struggle and feel overwhelmed

I started with fundamentals 1 I was doing ok until I got to switching between chords, then I suffered mental overload - Yes this is normal, guitar is not an easy instrument to learn

I spend about 1 hour each weekday on the lessons and essential chords for beginners - this is excellent and is exactly how I started 5 years ago, 1 hour each day.

I will play one chords about 4/5 times, stop and go to the next chord on the essential chords for beginners do that one about 4/5 times, then "try" to switch between chords - again this is exactly what I would do and will pay benefits

Another major issue is positioning/stretching my fingers between frets - dexterity will take time but it will come. Not sure how old you are, but the older we are the harder it is but everyone can limber up a bit with practice. Finger strength will also come with regular practice.

An example B Major - just play the screen shot below, don't worry about the 1st string. Put your index finger down on 5th string and barre strings 4,3 and 2 with your ring finger. It will sound fine.  Jumping over that 3rd fret will come in time with increased dexterity

Should I keep practicing the essential chords to improve my memory - yes

Before I go further in the classes - no problem jumping ahead to stop from being bored, but go back again and again to practice what you have trouble with

Any additional material I should review on this site to assist with chords and to possibly assist with finger positioning on the frets? - I would stick to Fundamentals right now 

Guitar is a huge study, be patient, practice, learn what you can when you can and keep up a regular routine, it will come together.

Best of luck

Bill